anthem

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

Examples of ANTHEM

1. <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

Related to ANTHEM

Synonyms: hymn, canticle, carol, chorale, psalm, spiritual

Related Words: dirge, lament, requiem, threnody; Gloria Patri, hallelujah, paean; mass, oratorio; processional, recessional

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Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, refrain, riff, segue