anthem
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.an·them
noun \ˈan(t)-thəm\Definition of ANTHEM
1
a : a psalm or hymn sung antiphonally or responsively b : a sacred vocal composition with words usually from the Scriptures
2
: a song or hymn of praise or gladness
3
: a usually rousing popular song that typifies or is identified with a particular subculture, movement, or point of view <anthems of teenage angst>
— an·the·mic \ˌan(t)-ˈthē-mik, -ˈthe-\ adjective
See Examples of ANTHEM
- <fervently sang an anthem of praise to the Lord>
Origin of ANTHEM
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
First Known Use: before 12th century
anthem
noun (Concise Encyclopedia)Choral composition with English words used in church services. It developed in the mid-16th century as the Anglican version of the Catholic Latin motet. The full anthem is for unaccompanied chorus throughout; the verse anthem employs one or more soloists and, generally, instrumental accompaniment. Both types often employ antiphonal singing, the alternation of two half-choirs (anthem derives from antiphon). William Byrd, Thomas Tallis, Henry Purcell, and George Frideric Handel wrote well-known anthems.
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