Dithyramb

Dithyramb

ˈdiTHəˌram

Noun

  • A wild choral hymn of ancient Greece, especially one dedicated to Dionysus.
  • A passionate or inflated speech, poem, or other writing.

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Example Sentences

“The revelers joyfully sang a dithyramb as they danced through Athens.”

“Mr. Patterson delivered an energetic dithyramb on the power of education.”

“The councilwoman gave a rousing dithyramb in her predecessor’s honor.”

Word Origin

Greek, early 17th century

Why this word?

The word “dithyramb” is first seen in works from ancient Greek and Latin scholars, describing the raucous celebrations praising Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, and his Roman counterpart, Bacchus. From 19th-century English translations: “The primitive Dithyrambus was a round choric dance and song in honour of Dionysus” and “the Dithyramb never lost the tempestuous and enthusiastic character of Bacchic revelry.” With such rousing descriptions, the word “dithyramb” was adopted for another usage: to denote passionate, over-the-top speeches, poetry, and other writing. This development came about in the mid-19th century (remember, there were no TVs, radios, or even phonographs for entertainment) when electrifying speeches were some of the most exciting spectacles one could find. 

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