Shibboleth
['ʃɪbəleθ] or ['ʃɪbəlɛθ]
Definition
(noun.) a manner of speaking that is distinctive of a particular group of people.
Typed by Arthur--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) A word which was made the criterion by which to distinguish the Ephraimites from the Gileadites. The Ephraimites, not being able to pronounce sh, called the word sibboleth. See Judges xii.
(n.) Also in an extended sense.
(n.) Hence, the criterion, test, or watchword of a party; a party cry or pet phrase.
Checker: Wyatt
Synonyms and Synonymous
n. Criterion, watchword, test.
Checker: Luther
Definition
n. (B.) a test-word used by the Gileadites under Jephthah to detect the fleeing Ephraimites who could not pronounce the sh (Judges xii. 4-6): the criterion or watchword of a party.
Checker: Vivian
Examples
- They were made to pronounce the word Shibboleth and were easily detected as enemies when they pronounced it Sibboleth. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- The term Shibboleth has come to mean a countersign or password of a secret society since the Biblical days, when the Ephraimites, who had been routed by Jephthah, tried to pass the Jordan. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
Inputed by Hannibal