English Reference

Word

chant

US/ˈtʃænt/

UK/tʃˈɑːnt/

Definitions

01rhythmic group shouting

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. words or phrases that a group of people shout together over and over.

n. a repetitive, rhythmic phrase shouted or sung in unison by a crowd, often to show support or protest.

“The crowd started a loud chant to support their team during the final minutes.”

“The protest was defined by a rhythmic chant that echoed through the streets, unifying the diverse group of demonstrators under a single slogan.”

Synonyms

02religious or ritual singing

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Religion

n. a simple religious song or prayer that is repeated many times.

n. a repetitive song or melodic recitation, typically used in religious rituals or spiritual incantations.

“The monks woke up early to perform their morning chant in the temple.”

“The hypnotic quality of the Gregorian chant filled the cathedral, creating an atmosphere of ancient solemnity that captivated the visitors.”

Synonyms

incantationpsalmmantra

03to repeat rhythmically

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to say or shout the same words many times in a rhythmic way.

v. to utter or repeat words in a strongly rhythmic manner, often as part of a group.

“The fans began to chant the player's name after he scored the winning goal.”

“As the marathon runners approached the finish line, the spectators began to chant words of encouragement to help them through the final mile.”

Synonyms

intonerecite

Real-World Examples

“It was also the first time Chelsea supporters sang the new Rogers chant in the away end.”
BBC News 24 Aug 2026
“From the south end, there were chants of “Fuck Barcelona!”
The Guardian 24 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Middle English chaunten, from Old French chanter, from Latin cantāre (“sing”). Doublet of cant.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

NOUN

chant(B2)

Domain

Music

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

QR code

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English Reference