Shibboleth

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.