xerafim

noun

xe·​ra·​fim

-ēⁿ,

-ēm

variants or xerafin or less commonly xeraphim or xeraphin

plural -s

: a silver coin current in Portuguese India before the 19th century and worth 300 to 360 reis

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese xerafim, from Arabic sharīfi, from sharīf noble

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