Meaning & Definition of word "Gentile"

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    Gentile

    /ˈdʒɛn.taɪl/

    noun:

    • 1. A person who is not Jewish, often used in a religious context.
      • Example: In the book, the missionary spoke to both Jews and gentiles about the new teachings.
    • 2. A non-Israelite person; a term used in Jewish texts.
      • Example: The festival was attended by both Israelites and gentiles celebrating together.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'gentilis' meaning 'of the same clan or family, foreign, non-Jewish.'

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    gentile culture:

    The customs and social practices of non-Jewish societies.

    gentile community:

    A community primarily composed of non-Jews.

    Related Words

    Jew:

    A member of the Jewish people; a follower of Judaism.

    Judaism:

    The monotheistic religion of the Jews, based on the Torah.

    Slang Meanings of gentile

    Meaning: Used derogatorily to refer to a non-Jew.

    Example Sentence: Some might use 'gentile' in a dismissive tone when referring to outsiders.

    Meaning: Often used neutrally in conversations about religious or cultural identity.

    Example Sentence: She described her gentile friends with no connotation of offense.