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

Duplantis has created the championship anthem, and will perform it live in the stadium. — Liam Tharme, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

How will Bills fans react to an anthem being played when the teams on the field aren't from Canada? — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 10 Sep. 2026

In 2016, the former San Francisco 49ers player first sat, then knelt, during the anthem to protest police brutality. — Michel Martin, NPR, 9 Sep. 2026

The propulsive anthem becomes synonymous with the end of the hoops showcase that carried the triumphs of such NBA superstars as Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 9 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