What does hymnic mean?
Hymnic is an adjective meaning relating to hymns or resembling their traditional form, language, or musical character. It is often applied to poetry, prayer, choral music, and ceremonial writing that has a solemn, songlike quality. The word suggests more than a general religious atmosphere: it evokes the specific tradition of hymnody, in which praise, belief, and devotion are expressed through rhythmic or musical verse. A work may be described as hymnic even when it is not formally titled a hymn, particularly when its language or musical treatment resembles hymn singing. In general contexts, the term is precise but somewhat literary and uncommon. It is more informative than a broad description such as “sacred,” because it specifically connects the work to the conventions and expressive character of hymns.
adjectiveRelating to hymns, or characteristic of hymns and their poetic or musical style.
- Relating to hymns or characteristic of their poetic, musical, or devotional style.
"The composer gave the movement a distinctly hymnic quality."
"The choir performed a sequence of hymnic texts from several traditions."
"Her account of the ceremony has a distinctly hymnic rhythm."
Hymnic points to the elevated, songlike language of sacred verse—and to the tradition of turning praise into poetry.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hymnic come from?
Hymnic was formed in English by adding the suffix “-ic” to “hymn.” “Hymn” entered Middle English from Old French ymne and Latin hymnus, both of which derive from Greek hymnos, meaning a song of praise. Through this inherited history, hymnic retains its association with sung or poetic expressions of religious praise.
Related word forms
How hymnic is actually used
Chiefly literary, religious, or musicological. It describes qualities associated with hymns and is more common in formal writing than in everyday speech.