What is the main use of 颂 in modern Chinese?

It is primarily used in formal contexts for praise, eulogies, and in references to classical poetry (e.g., 歌颂).

Is 颂 commonly used in names?

It is relatively rare in modern given names but can be used to convey a sense of classical elegance and virtue.

颂 implies a more formal, public, and often poetic or ceremonial praise, while 赞 is more general and can be used in everyday contexts.

頌Tone 4

sòng ｜ 13 strokes ｜ radical:

To praise, extol, eulogize;

a song of praise, an ode;

also refers to ancient Chinese poetry forms and Buddhist hymns.

To praise, extol, eulogizea song of praise, an odealso refers to ancient Chinese poetry forms and

To praise and extolTo eulogize virtuesA song of praiseTo chant Buddhist hymnsThe OdesWords of praise

One of the three major sections of the Classic of Poetry (《诗经》), alongside 'Airs of the States' (《风》) and 'Lesser Odes' (《雅》); used in temple ceremonies to praise ancestors and gods.
Used in Buddhist contexts for chanting hymns and sutras (颂经).
Implies formal, respectful, and often public praise, carrying a solemn and dignified connotation.