paean

noun pae·an \ˈpē-ən\

: a song of joy, praise, or victory

Full Definition of PAEAN

: a joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving, or triumph

: a work that praises or honors its subject : encomium, tribute

See paean defined for English-language learners

See paean defined for kids

Latin, hymn of thanksgiving especially addressed to Apollo, from Greek paian, paiōn, from Paian, Paiōn, epithet of Apollo in the hymn

First Known Use: 1589

Synonyms: accolade, citation, commendation, dithyramb, eulogium, eulogy, homage, hymn, encomium, panegyric, salutation, tribute

Next Word in the Dictionary: paed-Previous Word in the Dictionary: PaducaAll Words Near: paean

What made you want to look up paean? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears