anthem

Etymology

From Middle English anteme, from Old English antefn, antefen and Old French antiene, anteine, anteivne, from Latin antiphōna, from Ancient Greek ἀντίφωνα (antíphōna), from ἀντί (antí, “over against”) + φωνή (phōnḗ, “voice, sound”). Doublet of antiphon and ant'em.

noun

1. (archaic) Antiphon.
2. A choral or vocal composition, often with a religious or political lyric.
   The school's anthem sang of its many outstanding qualities, and it was hard to keep a straight face while singing.
3. A hymn of praise or loyalty.
   The choir sang a selection of Christmas anthems at the service just before the big day.
4. (informal) A very popular song or track.
   In May 2000, they even finally cracked the UK top ten when they teamed up with Paul Van Dyk on the trance anthem "The Riddle"... 2003, Peter Buckley, The rough guide to rock

verb

1. (transitive, poetic) To celebrate with anthems.