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

Tesh himself has been positioning to capitalize, taking steps to secure and strategically manage the intellectual property behind his enduring sports anthem. —Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 17 Feb. 2026

The confetti falls, the anthem plays, the tears flow. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2026

The song subsequently became and remains a powerful LGBTQIA anthem of love and acceptance. —Melinda Newman, Billboard, 16 Feb. 2026

Longtime fans who adore her babymaker R&B anthems may be initially disappointed with the musical eclecticism. —Mosi Reeves, Rolling Stone, 13 Feb. 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