Definition of anthem

The word "anthem" has its roots in ancient Greece. In Greek, the word "enthymon" (ἔνθυμον) referred to a hymn or song sung in honor of the gods. This term was later adopted into Latin as "anthemum," and from there it was borrowed into various European languages, including Middle English. In English, the word "anthem" originally referred to a hymn or song sung in praise of a person, place, or thing. Over time, the spelling and meaning of the word were influenced by the Latin word "antemum," which referred to a song sung in praise of a person. Today, an anthem is often a patriotic song or national hymn, such as the "Star-Spangled Banner" in the United States. Despite its ancient origins, the word "anthem" has evolved to have a distinct modern connotation, often symbolizing national pride and identity.