English Reference
Noun

ode

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US /ˈoʊd/ UK /ˈəʊd/ ode UK spelling ode's, ode's Computing Music

n.a serious poem written to praise a person, an object, or an idea. It usually has a formal style and expresses deep feelings of respect.

n.a lyric poem characterized by elevated style, formal structure, and a serious tone, typically written in praise of a specific subject.


SIMPLE

He wrote a beautiful ode to his hometown.

CONTEXTUAL

The poet performed a moving ode dedicated to the fallen soldiers during the memorial service.

COMPLEX

Keats is renowned for his mastery of the form, particularly in works where the ode serves as a vehicle for exploring the tension between eternal art and human mortality.

Usage

Often takes the preposition 'to' to indicate the subject being praised.

On lead single Howl, Simon – who recently revealed she’s been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease – turns a quiet storm of anger into an ode to joy and forgiveness.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026

The result is a sincere, leg-burning ode to Cadel Evans , the first Aussie to win the Tour de France.

The Guardian· 18 Aug 2026

Etymology 1

From Middle French ode, from Late Latin ōda, from Ancient Greek ᾠδή (ōidḗ, “song”). Doublet of Aoede.

Etymology 2

Shortening.

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

This entry
Origin Ancient Greek ᾠδή
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated