anthem

An anthem is a song or vocal composition that proclaims allegiance, celebrates a person, group, idea, or community, and is performed publicly on ceremonial occasions. While often associated with nations, anthems can also express religious devotion, organizational pride, or social movements. An anthem typically features a strong, memorable melody and a chorus that invites audience participation, reinforcing shared identity through song.

The term originated in English in the early modern era, from a word meaning a liturgical or antiphonal song. Its early use was primarily religious, but over time the concept broadened to secular contexts, where it denotes a ceremonial or rallying song that unites a group.

Types and usage include national anthems, which mark state ceremonies and international events; religious anthems or hymns sung in worship; protest anthems that mobilize social or political movements; and institutional or school anthems that foster unity within organizations or communities. Anthems may be performed at formal occasions, during sports events, or in public demonstrations.

Notable examples span several traditions. France’s La Marseillaise is a historic revolutionary anthem; the United States’ The Star-Spangled Banner is widely used at events and competitions; the United Kingdom uses God Save the Queen/King as a traditional royal anthem; India’s Jana Gana Mana is the national anthem; South Africa’s Nkosi Sikelela iAfrika has served as a national anthem in various contexts.

In popular culture, Anthem is also the title of a 2019 video game by BioWare, illustrating how the concept extends beyond traditional music to modern media.