shibboleth
UK: ˈʃɪbəlɛθ | US: ˈʃɪbəlɛθ
n. a custom, phrase, or belief distinguishing a particular group or class
n. a linguistic feature (e.g., pronunciation) used to identify outsiders
n. a widely held but outdated or meaningless idea
The word originates from the Hebrew shibbólet (שִׁבֹּלֶת), meaning "stream" or "ear of grain." Its significance in English stems from a biblical story (Judges 12:5–6), where the Gileadites used the word to identify fleeing Ephraimites, who pronounced it as sibboleth due to their dialect. This test revealed their identity, leading to their execution. Over time, "shibboleth" evolved metaphorically to denote any linguistic or cultural marker that distinguishes groups, often with life-or-death consequences historically.
The accent became a shibboleth, exposing outsiders in the village.
In some professions, wearing a suit is a shibboleth of conformity.
The phrase "pineapple on pizza" turned into a shibboleth for food purists.
Ancient tribes used shibboleths to guard their territories.
The password acted as a shibboleth, granting access only to initiates.