anthem

noun

an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm How to pronounce anthem (audio)
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 adjective

Examples of anthem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The genre-bending anthem celebrates the musicians’ home of Georgia, honoring how the state shaped their careers. Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024 In this release, Castro adopts his alter ego ‘Richy,’ a character inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of his native Medellín, this year accompanied by his cousin Toño, portrayed by Juanes, to create a festive anthem that honors family, music, and their heritage. Griselda Flores, Billboard, 6 Dec. 2024 The series became famous for being a relic of the eighties thanks to its rock anthems, gaudy clothing and karate falling out of fashion. Caroline Reid, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024 This Christmas Time Tour is, obviously, constructed around Carey’s commandeering of the holiday thanks to a sweet jangle of an anthem. Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for anthem 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of anthem was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near anthem

Cite this Entry

“Anthem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthem. Accessed 14 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

anthem

noun
an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm How to pronounce anthem (audio)
1
: a sacred composition with words usually from the Scriptures
2
: a song of praise or gladness

More from Merriam-Webster on anthem

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