anthem
Anthem (noun) means a formal, often patriotic or ceremonial song that represents a nation, group, or cause. Example: “The crowd stood as the national anthem played before the match.”
How to Use Anthem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA rousing song that represents a country, team, or movement — or a solemn church song.
Word Forms
anthemed past tense, anthems plural, anthems singular
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The crowd stood as the national _____ played before the match.
Etymology
Traces back through Old English and Old French to Latin antiphona, from Greek antiphōna, "sounds in response" — originally music sung back and forth between two choir groups.
Related Words
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “anthem” mean?
The word “anthem” means a formal, often patriotic or ceremonial song that represents a nation, group, or cause. In plain terms, a rousing song that represents a country, team, or movement — or a solemn church song.
How do you pronounce “anthem”?
“Anthem” is pronounced an-thuhm-AN-thuhm (/ˈæn.θəm/ [ˈæn̪.θəm] in IPA).
How do you use “anthem” in a sentence?
Here is “anthem” used in a sentence: “The crowd stood as the national anthem played before the match.”
What part of speech is “anthem”?
“Anthem” is a noun.
Where does the word “anthem” come from?
The word “anthem” comes from Latin. Traces back through Old English and Old French to Latin antiphona, from Greek antiphōna, "sounds in response" — originally music sung back and forth between two choir groups.
Is “anthem” a common word?
“Anthem” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “anthem” have?
“Anthem” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal, often patriotic or ceremonial song that represents a nation, group, or cause.
What is the difference between an anthem and a hymn?
A hymn is a song of religious praise, usually addressed to God. An anthem may be a patriotic or ceremonial song representing a nation, group, or cause, or a solemn choral piece sung during a church service.
What is the difference between a national anthem and an anthem?
A national anthem is a country's official ceremonial song. "Anthem" is broader and can represent any nation, group, or cause, not just a country.
Are all anthems patriotic?
No. Besides patriotic or ceremonial songs, an anthem can also be a solemn religious choral piece sung during a church service.
In a church service, what is the difference between an anthem and a hymn?
An anthem is typically a choral piece performed by the choir, while a hymn is usually sung by the whole congregation. Both are religious, but they differ in who sings them.