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

The Jefferson Airplane psychedelic anthem might seem like a weird audition pick, but the musical connection was instant. — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 21 Sep. 2026

As McGuire reached the climax of the anthem, the large American flag began to wave in the outfield, bringing together a beautiful scene before first pitch that almost went totally awry. — Scott Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 21 Sep. 2026

Organizers quickly corrected the problem and played the correct anthem. — ABC News, 18 Sep. 2026

The potty-training anthem, which also features Elmo and Abby Cadabby, gets a colorful Sesame Street makeover while still keeping the visual flair that made Roan’s original such a perfect pop hit. — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 16 Sep. 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