Shibboleth

C2 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈʃɪbəlɛθ/

Definitions of shibboleth

noun a slogan or catchword used by a particular party or group to represent their beliefs or values

Example Sentences

A1 In some cultures, shaking hands is considered a shibboleth for greeting.

A2 The use of slang words can be a shibboleth to determine someone's age group.

B1 Wearing a certain type of clothing can be a shibboleth to identify members of a specific group.

B2 The pronunciation of certain words can act as a shibboleth to distinguish between different regional accents.

C1 The ability to speak multiple languages fluently can serve as a shibboleth for intelligence and education.

C2 Understanding complex philosophical concepts can be a shibboleth for advanced intellectual capabilities.

Examples of shibboleth in a Sentence

formal The use of a particular phrase or word can sometimes act as a shibboleth within a specific community.

informal Knowing the shibboleth of a group can help you fit in better.

slang If you don't know the shibboleth, you might stick out like a sore thumb.

figurative In some cultures, wearing a certain type of clothing can serve as a shibboleth to identify one's social status.

Grammatical Forms of shibboleth

past tense

shibbolethed

plural

shibboleths

comparative

more shibboleth

superlative

most shibboleth

present tense

shibboleths

future tense

will shibboleth

perfect tense

have shibbolethed

continuous tense

is shibbolething

singular

shibboleth

positive degree

shibboleth

infinitive

to shibboleth

gerund

shibbolething

participle

shibbolethed

Origin and Evolution of shibboleth

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Hebrew
Story behind the word: The word 'shibboleth' originates from a Hebrew word meaning 'ear of grain' or 'stream'. In the Book of Judges in the Bible, the word was used as a test to distinguish the Ephraimites from the Gileadites based on their pronunciation.
Evolution of the word: Over time, 'shibboleth' has evolved to represent a custom, principle, or belief that distinguishes a particular group or class. It is often used metaphorically to describe a symbol of identity or allegiance.