First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
anthem
noun an·them \ˈan(t)-thəm\
: a formal song of loyalty, praise, or happiness
: a song that is important to a particular group of people
Full Definition of ANTHEM
1
a : a psalm or hymn sung antiphonally or responsively b : a sacred vocal composition with words usually from the Scriptures
2
: a song or hymn of praise or gladness
3
: a usually rousing popular song that typifies or is identified with a particular subculture, movement, or point of view <anthems of teenage angst>
— an·the·mic \ˌan(t)-ˈthē-mik, -ˈthe-\ adjective
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Origin of ANTHEM
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
ANTHEMIC Defined for Kids
anthem
noun an·them \ˈan-thəm\
Definition of ANTHEM for Kids
1
: a sacred song usually sung by a church choir
2
: a patriotic song
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