carmen
n. countablen. a formal song or poem, especially one written for a special ceremony or religious event.
n. a song, poem, or incantation, particularly one used in a ritualistic or formal context. Often used in literary or historical discussions of Latin verse.
The poet recited a carmen to honor the new king.
Scholars analyzed the ancient carmen to understand the religious beliefs of the early Roman settlers.
The collection includes several examples of the carmen saeculare, a hymn commissioned for the centennial games to invoke divine protection over the state.
Usage
Plural form is 'carmina'. Primarily found in academic, literary, or historical texts regarding Latin literature.
Last updated May 3, 2026