Definition of hymn

The origin of the word "hymn" can be traced back to the ancient Greek word "υῒμνος" (ymnos), which literally means "a song of praise." In Greek mythology, an hymn was a sacred poem or song dedicated to a deity, often recited as part of religious ceremonies and festivals. The Greek word "ymnos" was adopted into Latin as "hymnus," and it entered the English language via Anglo-Saxon and Old French. The Middle English word "hymne" developed into the modern English word "hymn," which retained its original meaning of a religious song of praise, typically sung in a worship service or religious ceremony. Today, the word "hymn" is commonly used in Christianity and other religious traditions as a type of devotional song or composition, often set to music and featuring lyrics that celebrate the worship of a deity or other sacred subject. In addition to religious contexts, the term "hymn" has also been used more broadly to refer to any song of praise, whether sacred or secular, as well as to describe other types of poetic or musical compositions.