anthem

noun

an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm How to pronounce anthem (audio)
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 adjective

Examples of anthem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The failure to air the anthem was compounded by the decision to also air a controversial video message from Tom Wilson, the CEO of Allstate, which is the Sugar Bowl's corporate sponsor. Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 16 Jan. 2025 Many commenters on social media say that the anthem reminds them of the rich biodiversity for which the country is known. Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 Jan. 2025 Marian Anderson, Mahalia Jackson, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Peter, Paul and Mary, Odetta and The Freedom Singers sang spirituals, freedom songs and folk anthems, with the crowd singing along. Lara Downes, NPR, 15 Jan. 2025 Join in the singing of beloved hymns and anthems with guest choir conductor and organist Charles Frost. Del Mar Times, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for anthem 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of anthem was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near anthem

Cite this Entry

“Anthem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthem. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

anthem

noun
an·​them ˈan(t)-thəm How to pronounce anthem (audio)
1
: a sacred composition with words usually from the Scriptures
2
: a song of praise or gladness

More from Merriam-Webster on anthem

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