Hymnology
/hɪmˈnɒl.ə.dʒi/noun
The study of hymns, especially their history, texts, and use in worship.
Did you know?Hymnology comes from the same ancient Greek root as hymn itself, from a word for a song of praise, showing how closely early Christianity tied music to devotion and spoken ritual.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
hymnos
“A song of praise or celebration, often sung in honor of a god or hero.”
Late Greek
Greek
hymnologia
“Speech or discourse about hymns.”
Late Latin
Latin
hymnologia
“A treatise or discussion of hymns.”
17th Century
English
hymnology
“The study of hymns and hymn writing.”
Modern English
English
hymnology
“The academic study of hymns, especially their history and classification.”