“Hail to the Chief”

Cultural  

1. The official song or anthem of the president of the United States, played as part of welcoming ceremonies and receptions when the president first appears.

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Example Sentences

American investors were humming “Hail to the Chief” last January, with stocks up in the weeks before Inauguration Day.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

He suspended the playing of “Hail to the Chief” whenever he arrived at an event, though he later allowed the practice to resume.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 29, 2024

Another commercial opens with the song “Hail to the Chief” and shows portraits of the historical figures Horatio Seymour, Charles C. Pinckney, Hugh L. White and Lewis Cass.

From New York Times • Dec. 2, 2022

And then, on Wednesday, he stood in front of the White House with first lady Jill Biden, listening to “Hail to the Chief” being played for him.

From Washington Post • Jan. 20, 2021

On Wednesday morning, a military band played “Hail to the Chief” as Bush’s casket was carried down the steps of the U.S.

From Washington Times • Dec. 6, 2018