# ode

/ˈoʊd/ (US) · /ˈəʊd/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ode
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

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.

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

## Examples

- He wrote a beautiful ode to his hometown.
- The poet performed a moving ode dedicated to the fallen soldiers during the memorial service.
- 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 notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.