Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day – "paean"

Episode Date: March 1, 2026
Host: Peter Sokolowski

Episode Overview

This episode introduces and explores the word "paean," delving into its literary meaning, classical origins, historical usage, and current nuances in English. The host, Peter Sokolowski, provides engaging context, a memorable usage example, and insight into how the term has evolved over centuries.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Spelling

• Word: paean
• Spelling: P A E A N
• Part of Speech: Noun
• Meaning:
  • A song of joy, praise, or victory
  • A tribute; any work that praises or honors its subject
  • Literary synonym for "tribute"

2. Example Usage

• Quotation (from The Atlantic):

  "The show is a tender study of people struggling to do right by themselves and others. It's also a paean to Chicago, my hometown."
  (00:46)

3. Classical and Mythological Roots

• In ancient Greece, "Paean" (or "Paion") was a name used for the god Apollo, particularly in his role as physician to the gods.
• The term "paean/paion" also referred to hymns of thanksgiving and praise, especially those sung to Apollo.
• The Latin language adopted the word as "paean," retaining similar meanings.
  (00:56)

4. Entry into English

• First appeared in English in the late 16th century.
• Initially used in both historical (Greek context) and general senses:
  • Joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving, or triumph.
• Over time, the word broadened to mean any kind of "tribute."
  (01:22)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On literary usage:

  "Paean is a noun. It's a literary word that refers to a song of joy, praise or victory. It can also be used as a synonym of the word tribute for a work that praises or honors its subject."
  — Peter Sokolowski, (00:33)

• On mythological background:

  "In ancient Greece, Paean, or Paion, was a name used for the God Apollo when in the guise of physician to the gods."
  — Peter Sokolowski, (00:56)

• On linguistic evolution:

  "When paean first appeared in English in the late 16th century, it was used both in the context of Greek history and in general for a joyous song or hymn of praise, tribute, thanksgiving or triumph. Over time, the word became even more generalized and is now used for any kind of tribute."
  — Peter Sokolowski, (01:18)

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:32 – Definition and spelling of "paean"
• 00:46 – Example sentence from The Atlantic
• 00:56 – Mythological and etymological roots
• 01:18 – Adoption into English and development of meaning

Tone & Style

Peter Sokolowski maintains an educational yet accessible tone, blending concise definitions with engaging historical anecdotes to animate the word's literary and classical dimensions.

Summary Takeaway

"Paean" is a rich, literary term with roots in ancient Greek mythology, initially denoting hymns of praise, especially to Apollo, but now commonly referring to any kind of tribute, song, or work of honor. The episode artfully interweaves history, language, and contemporary usage, making "paean" immediately memorable and ready for use.