PagineWhat Child Is This? is a 1865 Christmas carol that begins “What child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping?…”. Below are the full public-domain lyrics to print and sing, links to free sheet music, its history and fun actions for kids.
What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary.
What Child Is This? · words: William Chatterton Dix (1865) · music: Traditional English tune “Greensleeves” · public domain · printed from pagineapp.com
Full hymn and choir arrangements of What Child Is This? are free because the song is in the public domain. Download them from these non-profit libraries:
What Child Is This? sets words by William Chatterton Dix, written in 1865, to the old English tune “Greensleeves”.
Sing the question softly, then answer proudly on “This, this is Christ the King”.
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The words are by William Chatterton Dix (1865) and the music is a traditional english tune “greensleeves”; it dates from 1865.
Yes. What Child Is This? is in the public domain, so the lyrics on this page are free to print and sing at home, school or church.
What Child Is This? is a good fit for children aged 5+. Try the actions on this page to keep little ones singing along.
🗓️ Updated October 2026