Herodian

1 of 2

noun

He·​ro·​di·​an

hə̇ˈrōdēən,

heˈ-

plural -s

: a member of a political party of biblical times consisting of Jews who were apparently partisans of the Herodian house and together with the Pharisees opposed Jesus

Herodian

2 of 2

adjective

"

: of or relating especially to Herod the Great, king of Judea (37–4 b.c.)

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English, from Late Latin Herodianus, from Herodes (Herod) †4 b.c. king of Judea + Latin -ianus -ian

First Known Use

Noun

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1581, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now