hymnal

American  

[him-nl] / ˈhɪm nl /

noun

1. Also called hymnbook.  a book of hymns for use in a religious service.

---

adjective

1. of or relating to hymns.

hymnal British  

/ ˈhɪmnəl /

noun

1. a book of hymns

---

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of hymns

Etymology

Origin of hymnal

1535–45; hymnal ( in def. 1 ) < Medieval Latin hymnāle, noun use of neuter of hymnālis (adj.); hymnal ( in def. 2 ) < Medieval Latin hymnālis; see hymn, -al ¹, -al ²

Example Sentences

He began using it as a hymnal bookmark—and a use was born. 3M employees tested them around the office and adored them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

On the power of the presidency – the scope of executive authority and the necessity for the White House to act forcefully when required – they were singing from the same hymnal.

From BBC • Nov. 4, 2025

“Coogler has orchestrated three clashing genres — drama, musical and monster movie — into a hymnal about the struggle to create something beautiful during your time on Earth,” she wrote.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2025

Through this interfaith theme, Rajasekar blends traditions of liturgical worship, and creates a hymnal experience that again fosters human connection through the fluidity of shared stories.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 7, 2022

I knew there could not be any minister, but the marriage ceremony was all written out in the back of the hymnal.

From "Z for Zachariah" by Robert C. O’Brien