anthem

an-them · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A rousing or uplifting song identified with a particular group, body, or cause.

  2. 2.

    A national anthem; a song officially adopted as the patriotic song of a country.

  3. 3.

    A choral composition, often with a religious text, for church services.

Forms

plural: anthems

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    national anthem — The official patriotic song of a country.
  • •
    rock anthem — A powerful rock song that inspires audience participation.

Related words

See also: hymn, patriotic, song
Synonyms: canticle, hymn, song

Etymology

From Old English antefn, from Late Latin antiphona ("antiphon"), from Greek antiphona ("responsive singing"), from anti- ("in return") + phone ("voice, sound").