noun / verb
hymn
HIM/hɪm/
Praise or worship expressed in song.
The congregation sings a hymn at the start of worship.
Etymology
A hymnos could praise gods or heroes. Its use for songs praising God in Greek scripture connects that broader praise-song tradition with the religious meaning of English hymn.
In context
on sunday it culminates in the te deum the church's magnificent hymn of thanksgiving and praise
More examples
- Her favorite hymn offers thanks for life's blessings.
- We sing two hymns during the service.
- The choir hymns God's glory.
Forms
hymn · hymns · hymned · hymning
hymnal noun — A book containing hymns for worship.
Similar words
- psalm
- A sacred song, especially one from the biblical Psalms.
- carol
- A joyful religious song, especially one sung at Christmas.