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Webster 1913 Edition


Dithyramb

Dith′y-ramb

,
Noun.
[L.
dithyrambus
, Gr. [GREEK] a kind of lyric poetry in honor of Bacchus; also, a name of Bacchus; of unknown origin: cf. F.
dithyrambe
.]
A kind of lyric poetry in honor of Bacchus, usually sung by a band of revelers to a flute accompaniment; hence, in general, a poem written in a wild irregular strain.
Bentley.

Webster 1828 Edition


Dithyramb

DITHYRAMB

, DITHYRAMBUS,
Noun.
[Gr.] In ancient poetry, a hymn in honor of Bacchus, full of transport and poetical rage. Of this species of writing we have no remains.