anthem

American  

[an-thuhm] / ˈæn θəm /

noun

1. a song, as of praise, devotion, or patriotism.

   the national anthem of Spain; our college anthem.

2. a piece of sacred vocal music, usually with words taken from the Scriptures.

3. a hymn sung alternately by different sections of a choir or congregation.

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verb (used with object)

1. to celebrate with or in an anthem.

anthem British  

/ ˈænθəm, ænˈθɛmɪk /

noun

1. a song of loyalty or devotion, as to a nation or college

   a national anthem

2. a musical composition for a choir, usually set to words from the Bible, sung as part of a church service

3. a religious chant sung antiphonally

4. a popular rock or pop song

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Other Word Forms

• anthemic adjective

Etymology

Origin of anthem

First recorded before 1000; Middle English antem, Old English antemn(e), antefne, from Late Latin antefana, antiphōna (feminine singular), from Greek antíphōna ( antiphon ); spelling with h probably by association with hymn, with pronunciation then changed to reflect spelling

Example Sentences

As well as performing for royalty, the singer is known for belting out the Welsh national anthem at rugby games and singing for the armed forces.

From BBC

Footage released by the Israeli military showed Gvili's coffin draped in an Israeli flag and surrounded by soldiers singing the national anthem.

From Barron's

Puth, who rose to prominence singing covers posted to YouTube that went viral, told Rolling Stone he was selected to sing the national anthem after submitting a demo tape to Roc Nation.

From Los Angeles Times

"Honestly, unbelievable. That's why I joined the club... I almost cried," said Wissa on hearing the Champions League anthem for the first time on the pitch.

From Barron's

After the national anthem the Crown Prince - the King's son - greeted each player.

From BBC

Related Words

• chant
• chorus
• hymn
• melody