Israeli
UK[ɪzˈreɪli]US[ɪzˈreɪli]
adj
Of or relating to the modern country of Israel or its people.
n
A native or inhabitant of the modern country of Israel.
Morpheme Breakdown
Israel
i
Israel
God contends
i
of or pertaining to
Etymology
The word 'Israeli' is a modern formation directly derived from the name of the state of Israel, which was established in 1948. The state's name itself was adopted from the ancient Hebrew appellation "Yisra'el," a name with profound biblical significance. The suffix '-i,' borrowed from Latin via languages like French and Italian (as in 'Israeli,' 'Iraqi'), is a common linguistic device for forming demonyms. Thus, 'Israeli' literally means "pertaining to Israel," cleanly distinguishing the modern national identity from the ancient, historical, and religious connotations of the term 'Israelite.'
Analysis
Structure: Israel + i
- Israel: A proper name, from the Hebrew personal name "Yisra'el" (meaning "God contends" or "he who struggles with God").
- i: A suffix of Latin origin, used to form adjectives and nouns meaning "of or pertaining to" a place or people.
Examples
The Israeli government announced new economic reforms.
She is an Israeli who now lives and works in New York.
We sampled some delicious Israeli cuisine at the festival.