General terms for short poems:
* "Chansonnette": This term was used for a short, lyric poem, often dealing with love or courtly themes.
* "Lai": A narrative poem, typically short and often with a supernatural or romantic theme.
* "Rondel": A short, rhymed poem with a specific structure (two stanzas of five lines each and a three-line refrain).
* "Chanson": While often referring to a song, "chanson" could also describe a short, lyric poem.
More specific terms:
* "Vers": This simply means "verse" and could be used for any short poem.
* "Poème court": This is a more direct translation of "short poem" and could be used in a scholarly context.
Ultimately, the best term to use would depend on the specific content and form of the poem.
For example, if you're referring to a short, romantic poem with a specific structure, "chansonnette" might be the most appropriate term. If it's a narrative poem with a supernatural element, "lai" could be a good fit.
If you can provide more information about the poem, I can help you choose the most accurate and descriptive Old French term.