Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Anthem
An′them
(ăn′thĕm)
, Noun.
[OE.
antym
, antefne
, AS. antefen
, fr. LL. antiphona
, fr. Gr. ἀντίφωνα
, neut. pl. of ἀντίφωνον
antiphon, or anthem, n. neut., from ἀντίφωνοσ
sounding contrary, returning a sound; ἀντί
over against + φωνή
sound, voice: the anthem being sung by the choristers alternately, one half-choir answering the other: cf. OF. anthaine
, anteine
, antieune
, F. antienne
. See Antiphon
.] 1.
Formerly, a hymn sung in alternate parts, in present usage, a selection from the Psalms, or other parts of the Scriptures or the liturgy, set to sacred music.
An′them
,Verb.
T.
To celebrate with anthems.
[Poet.]
Sweet birds
antheming
the morn. Keats.
Webster 1828 Edition
Anthem
AN'THEM
,Noun.
A hymn sung in alternate parts; but in modern usage, a sacred tune or piece of music set to words, taken from the psalms or other parts of the scriptures, first introduced into church service in Elizabeth's reign.
Definition 2024
anthem
anthem
English
Noun
anthem (plural anthems)
- (archaic) Antiphon.
- A choral or vocal composition, often with a religious or political lyric.
- The school's anthem sang of its many outstanding qualities, and it was hard to keep a straight face while singing.
- A hymn of praise or loyalty.
- The choir sang a selection of Christmas anthems at the service just before the big day.
- (informal) A very popular song or track.
- 2003, Peter Buckley, The rough guide to rock
- In May 2000, they even finally cracked the UK top ten when they teamed up with Paul Van Dyk on the trance anthem "The Riddle"...
- 2003, Peter Buckley, The rough guide to rock
Derived terms
Translations
national anthem
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hymn of praise or loyalty
very popular track or song
Verb
anthem (third-person singular simple present anthems, present participle antheming, simple past and past participle anthemed)
- (transitive, poetic) To celebrate with anthems.
- Keats
- Sweet birds antheming the morn.
- Keats