shibboleth

noun
UK: /ˈʃɪb.ə.leθ/
US: /ˈʃɪb.ə.leθ/

  1. A word or phrase used by a particular group of people that is not easily understood by outsiders.

    1. The password was a shibboleth to enter the secret club.
    2. Using specific technical terms can act as a shibboleth, excluding those unfamiliar with the field's jargon.

  2. A custom or belief that distinguishes one group of people from another.

    1. The pledge of allegiance became a shibboleth.
    2. The concept of manifest destiny functioned as a shibboleth, uniting Americans while marginalizing others.

Synonyms

slogan hallmark watchword custom catchphrase belief password

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "shibboleth" in English means: A word or phrase used by a particular group of people that is not easily understood by outsiders., A custom or belief that distinguishes one group of people from another..

The phonetic transcription of "shibboleth" is /ˈʃɪb.ə.leθ/ in British English and /ˈʃɪb.ə.leθ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "shibboleth": slogan, hallmark, watchword, custom, catchphrase, belief, password.

Example usage of "shibboleth": "The password was a shibboleth to enter the secret club.". More examples on the page.