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

Usually known more for pop anthems and extravagant costumes than for political disagreements, the Eurovision Song Contest is facing a major boycott after a push to eject Israel from the contest was rejected. —Andrew Jones, NBC news, 4 Dec. 2025

Persistence, self-belief and hard work are what have helped musician, actor, former professional tennis player, current Serra Mesa resident and the creator of the new San Diego Gulls anthem, Eric Sage, succeed in life. —Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2025

Kick-starting the initiative is an arsenal of snappy, hooky nods to early B-boy culture and post-disco, aughts club bangers, and anarchic Odd Future anthems. —Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025

Lady Gaga performed the anthem at Super Bowl X in 2016, which was the last time the NFL’s championship game was held at Levi’s Stadium. —Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 1 Dec. 2025

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