What does paean mean?
A paean is a song, hymn, or eloquent expression of praise and thanksgiving. The word has ancient literary associations with ceremonial songs sung in honour of gods, rulers, and heroic deeds, but today it is also used figuratively for any forceful tribute or celebration. For example, a review might describe a work as a paean to the resilience of its central character. Paean is more elevated and expressive than simply praise, and often conveys wholehearted admiration rather than measured approval. Its uncommon sound and classical origin also suit formal criticism, cultural commentary, and ceremonial language. As a verb, paean means to praise enthusiastically, although this use is less common than the noun. Recognising paean helps distinguish a specific, often grand expression of praise from a general compliment.
A song or hymn of praise or thanksgiving; an enthusiastic expression of admiration or approval.
"Her acceptance speech was a moving paean to the teachers who had supported her."
Often formal and literary; figurative uses commonly describe praise of an achievement, quality, place, or person.
To praise or celebrate enthusiastically.
"The festival continued to paean the courage of its founding performers."
Rare and literary, with an emphatic sense of energetic or effusive praise.
The standard plural of the noun paean.
"The collection contains several paeans to the natural beauty of the coast."
The word paean preserves an ancient Greek invitation to sing: it ultimately comes from a verb meaning “to sing” or “to chant.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paean come from?
The English word entered use in the late 16th century from Latin paeana, a song of praise. Latin paeana came from Ancient Greek paianē, a hymn or song associated with the god Apollo, whose name derives from the verb paiō, meaning “to sing” or “to chant.” The word originally referred specifically to a sung hymn of praise before developing into a broader term for expressions of enthusiastic admiration.
How paean is actually used
As a noun, paean is usually formal and distinctly complimentary, often suggesting praise that is expansive or celebratory. The verb is comparatively rare and literary.
Easily confused with paean
A paean expresses praise or thanksgiving, whereas a pagan is a person whose religious beliefs are not conventionally Christian, Jewish, or Muslim.