Hebrew

noun

He·​brew ˈhē-(ˌ)brü 

1

a

: the Semitic language of the ancient Hebrews

b

: any of various later forms of this language

2

: a member of or descendant from one of a group of northern Semitic peoples including the Israelites

especially : israelite

Hebrew adjective

Examples of Hebrew in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The lights go down, the candles light up, and Jonah chants the portion in its original text in Hebrew. —Leah Abrams, Them., 17 Apr. 2025

Passover is a Jewish holiday during the month of Nisan on the Hebrew calendar. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025

His personal commitment to studying the Bible led him to learn Hebrew, Greek and Latin, enriching his understanding of God’s Word. —Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 11 Apr. 2025

Susannah Origin: Hebrew Meaning: Lily, according to Nameberry.com Similar Names and Variations: Susanna, Susan, Suzanne, Susy Famous Namesakes: Several popular figures have this name, including director Susannah Grant, actress Susannah Yolande York, and singer Susannah Melvoin. —Anna Halkidis, Parents, 8 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English Ebreu, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin Hebraeus, from Latin, adjective, from Greek Hebraios, from Aramaic ʽEbrai

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing Hebrew

• Late Hebrew
• Modern Hebrew
• Rabbinic Hebrew

Kids Definition

Hebrew

noun

He·​brew ˈhē-(ˌ)brü 

1

: a member of one of a group of northern Semitic peoples including the Israelites

especially : israelite

2

: the Semitic language of the Hebrews

Hebraic

hi-ˈbrā-ik

adjective

Hebrew adjective