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

If any of the athletes top the podium at the end of an event, their nations’ anthems won’t be played. —Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 3 Feb. 2026

The brand anthem also features actress and singer Teyana Taylor. —Meghan L. Hall, USA Today, 1 Feb. 2026

That specific string cover of Taylor Swift’s anthem backs a different Cinderella-esque scene involving the pair, who miraculously reconnect in the countryside after Araminta (Katie Leung) fires Sophie from her position as housemaid in the Penwood home. —Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 30 Jan. 2026

The spot, set to an iconic sports anthem from a beloved football movie, highlights the preparation, training and competition that defines every athlete’s journey – the same theme Dick’s Team USA ambassadors will bring to life in their social content. —Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 28 Jan. 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