anthem

noun

an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm 

1

: a song or hymn of praise or gladness

a patriotic anthem

2

: a usually rousing popular song that typifies or is identified with a particular subculture, movement, or point of view

anthems of teenage angst

3

a

: a psalm or hymn sung antiphonally or responsively

b

: a sacred vocal composition with words usually from the Scriptures

anthemic

ˌan(t)-ˈthē-mik 

-ˈthe-

adjective

Synonyms of anthem

• hymn
• psalm

Examples of anthem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The song written in collaboration with Alex Warren boomed from the stage, an anthem about breaking generational trauma fueled by addiction. — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026

National flags rising toward the rafters while an anthem echoes through the arena. — Tim Genske, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

The anthem is a passing of the torch from original voice actress Auli'i Cravalho to new star Catherine Laga'aia, with a playful rap verse from Dwayne Johnson's Maui thrown in for good measure. — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 10 July 2026

The heartbroken anthem, released via Warner Records, sees Swims reflecting on a breakup without regret or resentment. — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English antem, from Old English antefn, from Late Latin antiphona, from Late Greek antiphōna, plural of antiphōnon, from Greek, neuter of antiphōnos responsive, from anti- + phōnē sound — more at ban entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3a

Phrases Containing anthem

• national anthem

Kids Definition

anthem

noun

an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm 

1

: a sacred composition with words usually from the Scriptures

2

: a song of praise or gladness