Paean

Quick meaning: Paean is a noun meaning (by extension) Any loud and joyous song; a song of triumph.

Meaning

(by extension) Any loud and joyous song; a song of triumph.

More Meanings

1. (by extension) An enthusiastic expression of praise.
2. (transitive, rare) To sing a paean; to praise.
3. (Ancient Greece, historical) A chant or song, especially a hymn of thanksgiving for deliverance or victory, to Apollo or sometimes another god or goddess; hence any song sung to solicit victory in battle.

Example Sentences

Unlike other accounts, Eagles of the RAF is not simply a paean to the pilots as special heroes and "aces," though many performed heroically and some sacrificed their lives.

Long before they reached this place, which was situated at the other end of the village, they heard the pæan of May carolled by a hundred voices; and, on entering the area, they immediately joined in the chorus.

But what tribute shall we bestow, what sacred pæan shall we raise over the tombs of those who dared, in the face of unrivalled power, and within the reach of majesty, to blow the blast of freedom throughout a subject continent?

In the mean time I am going to that part, whence I think it convenient for the battle to begin; and, as I paſs, ſhall consider how things are with reſpect to ourſelves. When I come there, and we are juſt ready to engage, I ſhall begin the Pœan;^([sic]) and do you follow.

Word Forms

• paeans
• paeaning
• paeaned

Synonyms for paean

Depending on context, synonyms include hymn, encomium, praise, tribute, eulogy, panegyric.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include panegyric, encomium, eulogy, pean, ode, praise.

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