What does hymnary mean?
A hymnary is a collection of hymns, most often a book compiled for Christian worship. It may contain only a small group of well-known songs, but some hymnaries bring together hundreds of texts and tunes gathered from different churches, periods, languages, and traditions. The word is especially useful when discussing religious publishing, congregational singing, church history, or the transmission of worshipful poetry. It differs from a hymnal chiefly in scope: both names can refer to a book of hymns, while “hymnary” may also suggest a collection assembled for study, research, or historical reference. In ordinary conversation, the term can sound formal or specialist, but it is widely understood in theological, liturgical, and musical contexts.
nounA collection of hymns, especially one compiled for use in Christian worship or for study. The term can also refer more generally to a book or anthology containing sacred songs.
- A collection of hymns, especially one intended for use in Christian worship.
- A book or anthology of sacred or religious songs.
"The church's new hymnary includes translations of traditional psalms alongside contemporary worship songs."
"The anthology draws on hymnaries from churches across England."
"Her research traces the changing language of worship through nineteenth-century hymnaries."
The plural is formed by adding -ies to the singular form.
"The library preserves several nineteenth-century hymnaries."
A hymnary preserves a community's songs, turning centuries of worship into a single volume that can be carried, sung, and passed on.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hymnary come from?
The word comes through Medieval Latin hymnarium, a term derived from Greek roots associated with hymn or sacred song. English “hymnary” developed as a name for a book or collection of hymns, alongside related forms such as “hymnal” and “hymnology.” The same Indo-European vocabulary underlies words including “hymn” and “hymnary,” reflecting a long tradition of sung religious poetry.
Related word forms
How hymnary is actually used
The word is relatively uncommon in general conversation but is standard in discussions of Christian worship, hymnology, church history, and religious publishing. It is more specific than a general songbook.
Easily confused with hymnary
A hymn is an individual religious song, whereas a hymnary is a collection of hymns.
A psalter is a collection of psalms or a book containing them, while a hymnary may contain a wider selection of hymns and other sacred songs.