The Collaborative International Dictionary
Rhapsode \Rhap"sode\ (r[a^]p"s[=o]d), n. [Gr. "rapsw,do`s. See
Rhapsody.] (Gr. Antiq.)
A rhapsodist. [R.]
--Grote.
Wiktionary
n. 1 One who performs the poetry of a poet for an audience; not a writer of poetry 2 The interpreter of a poem 3 A rhapsodist.
Wikipedia
A rhapsode or, in modern usage, rhapsodist, refers to a classical Greek professional performer of epic poetry in the fifth and fourth centuries BC (and perhaps earlier). Rhapsodes notably performed the epics of Homer ( Iliad and Odyssey) but also the wisdom and catalogue poetry of Hesiod and the satires of Archilochus and others. Plato's dialogue Ion, in which Socrates confronts a star player rhapsode, remains the most coherent source of information on these artists. Often, rhapsodes are depicted in Greek art, wearing their signature cloak and carrying a staff. This equipment is also characteristic of travellers in general, implying that rhapsodes were itinerant performers, moving from town to town. Rhapsodes originated in the Ionian district, which has been sometimes regarded as Homer's birthplace, and were also known as Homeridai, disciples of Homer, or "singers of stitched lays."
Usage examples of "rhapsode".
Homeric epics were recited by relays of rhapsodes at the annual Panathenaic Festival in Athens, and similar performances may have occurred from earlier times at the great Ionian festivals at Delos and Mykale.