from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Te Deum \Te` De"um\ [L., from te (accus. of tu thou) + Deum,
accus. of Deus God. See {Thou}, and {Deity}.]
1. An ancient and celebrated Christian hymn, of uncertain
authorship, but often ascribed to St. Ambrose; -- so
called from the first words "Te Deum laudamus." It forms
part of the daily matins of the Roman Catholic breviary,
and is sung on all occasions of thanksgiving. In its
English form, commencing with words, "We praise thee, O
God," it forms a part of the regular morning service of
the Church of England and the Protestant Episcopal Church
in America.
[1913 Webster]
2. A religious service in which the singing of the hymn forms
a principal part.
[1913 Webster]
3. A musical setting of the {Te Deum[1]}.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]