shalach monos

noun

sha·​lach mo·​nos
variants or shalach manoth
ˌshäˌläḵˈmȯˌnōs,
-nəs
1
: the exchange of gifts or the sending of gifts to the poor at the time of the Purim festival
2
: a Purim gift consisting typically of cakes, confections, fruit, wine, or money

Word History

Etymology

shalach monos from Yiddish shlakh mones, from Hebrew mishlōaḥ mānōth sending of portions; shalach manoth from New Hebrew shālaḥ mānōth, alteration of Hebrews mishlōaḥ mānōth

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

Dictionary Entries Near shalach monos

Cite this Entry

“Shalach monos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shalach%20monos. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!