What is a mournful poem or song of lamentation for the dead called?

An elegy is a specific form of poetry or song that expresses sorrow or lamentation for someone who has died. This type of poem typically reflects on themes of loss, remembrance, and mourning, capturing the emotional response to death and often celebrating the life of the deceased. Elegies can vary in structure and style, but the key defining feature is their focus on mourning and reflection.

In contrast, a sonnet is a 14-line poem that often explores themes of love or beauty, and while it can express deep emotions, it is not limited to themes of death. A ballad is a narrative poem that tells a story, often in a musical form, and while ballads can cover various subjects, they do not exclusively focus on lamentation. An ode is a lyrical poem honoring a person or thing, usually expressing praise or admiration, rather than sorrow for the dead. Thus, the term elegy distinctly identifies a poem or song that deals with grief and loss, making it the correct choice for this question.