What does hymn mean?
A hymn is a religious song or poem of praise used especially in Christian worship, commonly sung by a congregation with or without instrumental accompaniment. The word may also refer more broadly to a song or literary expression celebrating a person, principle, place, or achievement. For example, a film might be praised as “a hymn to the beauty of the sea.” Hymns often have a communal function: they unite worshippers in shared language and can express joy, grief, gratitude, devotion, or confession. In everyday usage, the word retains a sense of dignity and reverence, but its figurative forms can be celebratory rather than solemn. Because a hymn is closely associated with worship, it is sometimes confused with an anthem; the usual distinction is that a hymn commonly involves a congregation, while an anthem is often a formal piece performed by a choir or band. “Hymn” is also widely used in titles and descriptions of church music, hymn books, and hymn writers.
A religious song or poem of praise sung especially in Christian worship, often by a congregation; more broadly, a song or expression of praise.
"They sang a hymn about hope and renewal."
The religious sense is dominant, while figurative uses commonly suggest earnest or elevated praise.
To worship, praise, or celebrate with a hymn or hymns.
"The congregation hymned the praises of God."
This is much less common in contemporary usage than the noun and chiefly occurs in religious, literary, or archaic contexts.
The standard plural of the noun is “hymns.”
"The collection contains several traditional hymns from different Christian traditions."
The word “hymn” comes from a Greek word for a song of praise, giving it one of the longest and most sacred musical pedigrees in English.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hymn come from?
The word entered Middle English through Old French from Latin hymnus, which was borrowed from Ancient Greek hýmnos, meaning “song” or “song of praise.” Its development reflects the longstanding use of sung praise in religious worship. Later English forms such as hymnal, hymnody, and hymnology continue to draw on the same Greek and Latin source.
Related word forms
How hymn is actually used
In its principal religious sense, “hymn” is common in formal worship, hymnals, and discussions of church music, though it can also sound traditional or old-fashioned in ordinary conversation. Figurative uses such as “a hymn to” often convey warm, elevated, or openly celebratory praise and may carry an implication of solemnity or emotional intensity.
Easily confused with hymn
A hymn is usually a religious song used in worship, often with a congregation participating, whereas an anthem is more often a ceremonial or institutional song performed by a choir or band.