haredim
UK[ˌhɑːrəˈdiːm]US[ˌhɑːrəˈdiːm]
n
Strictly orthodox Jews who reject modern secular culture and maintain traditional Jewish law and customs.
Morpheme Breakdown
hared
im
hared
trembling
im
Hebrew plural suffix
Etymology
The term 'Haredim' is a direct loanword from Modern Hebrew, where it functions as the plural of 'Haredi'. The Hebrew root חרד (ḥ-r-d) carries the core meaning of "trembling" or "fear". This etymology is deeply rooted in a biblical verse from the Book of Isaiah (66:5), which addresses those who "tremble at [God's] word". Over centuries, this scriptural reference evolved from a general descriptor of the pious into a specific label for the most rigorously observant Jewish communities. The term was adopted into English in the late 20th century to denote these groups who separate themselves from secular society, their modern identity thus conceptually linked to an ancient ideal of reverential awe.
Analysis
Structure: hared (trembling) + im (Hebrew plural suffix)
- hared: From Hebrew חָרֵד (ḥārēḏ), meaning "trembling, fearful". In this context, it refers to one who trembles in awe of God.
- im: A Hebrew masculine plural suffix, indicating the group.
Examples
The haredim in the neighborhood maintain their own schools and social institutions.
Political parties often seek the support of the haredim bloc.
The growing population of haredim has significant societal implications.