Meaning & Definition of word "Gentile"

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.