What term describes a short verse often set to music that conveys emotional content?

The term "lyrical" accurately describes a short verse often set to music that conveys emotional content. Lyrical poetry is characterized by its expression of personal feelings and emotions, making it suitable for musical adaptation. This focus on emotional expression is a hallmark of lyrical works, allowing them to resonate deeply with audiences through both the written word and musical performance.

In contrast, while "song" is a broader term that can encompass various forms of music, including those with no specific emotional or poetic content, "ode" refers to a formal and often elaborate lyric poem that celebrates a particular subject but may not inherently be set to music. "Ballad" typically denotes a narrative song or poem that tells a story, often with a focus on an event or series of events, rather than purely conveying emotional content. Thus, "lyrical" is the most fitting term for a short verse emphasizing emotional expression.