GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

last match results

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Anthem , n. [OE. antym, antefne, AS. antefen, fr. LL. antiphona, fr. Gr. ἀντίφωνα, neut. pl. of ἀντίφωνον antiphon, or anthem, n. neut., from ἀντίφωνος sounding contrary, returning a sound; ἀντί over against + φωνή sound, voice: the anthem being sung by the choristers alternately, one half-choir answering the other: cf. OF. anthaine, anteine, antieune, F. antienne. See Antiphon.]
   Formerly, a hymn sung in alternate parts, in present usage, a selection from the Psalms, or other parts of the Scriptures or the liturgy, set to sacred music.
   1913 Webster
   A song or hymn of praise or devotion; as, a national anthem.
   Milton.
   
   1913 Webster
   +PJC
         
       

2.       
   Anthem, v. t. To celebrate with anthems. [Poet.]
   1913 Webster
   Sweet birds antheming the morn.
   Keats.
   
   1913 Webster