Shibboleth ( noun , verb )

(As a noun)

Shibboleth ( noun )

1. A word or expression that is used to identify members of a particular group, especially as a password or test of loyalty.
2. A custom, principle, or belief distinguishing a particular class or group of people, especially a long-standing one regarded as outmoded or no longer important.

Origin:

The word comes from the hebrew word שִׁבֹּלֶת‎ (shibbólet), which means 'ear of grain' or 'stream'.

Examples:

1. The group used the secret phrase 'apple pie' as a shibboleth to identify each other.
2. The shibboleth of the party was 'no taxes, no government intervention'.
3. In ancient times, the pronunciation of the word 'shibboleth' was used as a test to distinguish between members of two rival tribes.
4. The wearing of a red rose became a shibboleth of the political group during the election.
5. The shibboleth of the club was the secret handshake that all members were expected to know.

(As a verb)

Shibboleth ( verb )

1. A word or expression that is used to identify members of a particular group, especially as a password or test of loyalty.
2. A custom, principle, or belief distinguishing a particular class or group of people, especially a long-standing one regarded as outmoded or no longer important.

Origin:

The word comes from the hebrew word שִׁבֹּלֶת‎ (shibbólet), which means 'ear of grain' or 'stream'.

Examples:

1. The group used the secret phrase 'apple pie' as a shibboleth to identify each other.
2. The shibboleth of the party was 'no taxes, no government intervention'.
3. In ancient times, the pronunciation of the word 'shibboleth' was used as a test to distinguish between members of two rival tribes.
4. The wearing of a red rose became a shibboleth of the political group during the election.
5. The shibboleth of the club was the secret handshake that all members were expected to know.