Definition

1. Noun:
   • An ancient liturgical hymn of the Christian Church: Specifically, a Latin hymn of thanksgiving beginning with the words "Te Deum laudamus" ("We praise Thee, O God"). It is traditionally sung on occasions of public rejoicing and thanksgiving.

Usage

• The word "Te Deum" is a proper noun referring to a specific, historic hymn. It is typically capitalized.
• It is used to name the hymn itself or to refer to a musical setting (a composition) of this hymn.
• Example:

Examples

• Noun:
  • The congregation stood to sing the Te Deum at the end of the royal wedding service.
  • Berlioz's Te Deum is a large-scale work for orchestra, choir, and organ.

Advanced Usage

• "to sing a Te Deum": To perform this specific hymn, often in a formal or celebratory context.
  • The nation sang a Te Deum to give thanks for the peace treaty.
• The phrase can be used metaphorically to express profound gratitude or celebration, though this is a literary extension.
  • His heart sang a silent Te Deum of thanks for their safe return.

Variants and Related Words

• Te Deum laudamus: The full Latin title and opening line of the hymn.
• Thanksgiving hymn: A general descriptive term for hymns of praise and thanks, of which the Te Deum is a prime example.

Synonyms

• Hymn of praise: A general term for a song of worship that adores or thanks God.
• Canticle of thanksgiving: A more formal term for a sacred song of thanks.

Notes

• As a proper noun naming a specific work, "Te Deum" does not have direct antonyms or common phrasal verbs.
• Its usage is almost exclusively within religious, musical, and historical contexts.

Noun

1. an ancient liturgical hymn