VocabDictionary

anthem

/ˈæn.θəm/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A rousing or uplifting song identified with a particular group, body, or cause.

Example Sentences:
  • The team walked onto the field as the stadium played their club anthem.
  • The 1990s track quickly became the unofficial youth anthem of a generation.
2.noun

A solemn choral piece set to religious words, usually used in church services.

Example Sentences:
  • The choir performed a beautiful English anthem during the Sunday morning service.
  • Renaissance composers wrote intricate anthems for royal coronations.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “anthem”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'antehfn', which comes from the Late Latin 'antiphona' and the Greek 'antiphōnos', meaning 'responding' or 'sounding opposite' (referring originally to choral singing with alternating voices, or responsive singing in church liturgy). Over time, the meaning shifted from a sacred choral composition to any song of praise, devotion, or national identity.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of an 'anthem' as an 'ant' that is 'them'—a song that unites the whole colony (them) together.

Frequently Asked Questions About “anthem

1. What is the meaning of “anthem” in English?

In English, anthem (noun) is defined as: “A rousing or uplifting song identified with a particular group, body, or cause.”.

2. How do you use “anthem” in a sentence?

The team walked onto the field as the stadium played their club anthem.

3. What are English synonyms of “anthem”?

Common synonyms include:hymn,song,chant,paean

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “anthem”?

Derived from the Old English 'antehfn', which comes from the Late Latin 'antiphona' and the Greek 'antiphōnos', meaning 'responding' or 'sounding opposite' (referring originally to choral singing with alternating voices, or responsive singing in church liturgy). Over time, the meaning shifted from a sacred choral composition to any song of praise, devotion, or national identity.