WordGarden.iochant
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /tʃˈɑːnt/
US
- /ˈtʃænt/
Meanings
Noun
a repeated phrase shouted or sung by a group
a simple repeated song or intoned religious text
Verb
to repeat words rhythmically, often with others
to sing or intone words in a chant
Beyond the definition
A chant isn't just any song; it's a repetitive, rhythmic way of using the voice—spoken or sung, sometimes on only a few notes. Think of sports fans chanting a team name, monks intoning prayers, or children repeating a playground rhyme. It's about creating a unified sound and shared feeling through words or phrases that cycle again and again. Chants often build energy and can express solidarity, devotion, or excitement. You might hear them at protests, rallies, religious ceremonies, or sporting events—anywhere people want to amplify their voices together.
A chant is the repetitive vocalization of words or sounds, typically performed in a rhythmic and melodic way. It's more than just singing; it's about creating a collective experience through shared sound. Historically, chants have been deeply embedded in religious practices across many cultures—from Gregorian chants in medieval monasteries to mantras in Hinduism and Buddhism. These ancient traditions often used chanting for meditation, prayer, or storytelling.
But chants aren't limited to the spiritual realm; they are powerful tools for social expression, too. Political protests frequently employ chants to convey messages of solidarity and resistance (such as "No justice, no peace!"). Sports fans use them to rally support for their teams, and even children learn through chanting—think of the alphabet or counting rhymes.
The power of a chant lies in its simplicity and repetition. This creates a sense of unity and can be incredibly emotionally stirring. A well-executed chant can build energy, inspire action, and forge a strong connection between those participating. Whether it's a sacred hymn, a political slogan, or a playful rhyme, the act of chanting is about more than just sound—it's about shared experience and a collective voice.
Examples
- 1
Sports fans
Fans chanted her name as she walked onto the court.
- 2
Protest demand
Outside city hall, protesters chanted for lower rents.
- Patternchant for + demand
repeat words loudly to demand it
- 3
Political opposition
Later, a smaller group chanted against the mayor's plan.
- Patternchant against + person/plan
repeat words loudly to show opposition
- 4
Crowd slogan
The crowd started a chant of "One more song!"
- Patterna chant of + words
repeated shouted words
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Religious ritual
At dawn, the monks' chant filled the temple.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- chantnounverb
Forms
- chanting-ing formverbnoun
- chantspluralnounverb
- chantedpast tenseverbnoun