ode
ode Lexical Profile
ode Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A formal lyric poem, originally intended to be sung in ancient Greece, characterized by elevated style and complex stanzaic structure, and typically written to address, praise, or celebrate a particular person, object, or event.
"In our literature seminar, we analyzed John Keats's famous ode to a Grecian urn and its meditation on timeless beauty."
An artistic work, creation, or gesture that serves as an affectionate tribute or expression of admiration for something.
"The director's latest film is a nostalgic ode to the independent cinemas of her childhood."
• Rhymes for ode
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 16th century via Middle French and Late Latin 'ode' from Ancient Greek 'oide' (a contraction of 'aoide', meaning 'song' or 'lay'), derived from the verb 'aeidein' ('to sing').
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.