israelite
UK[ˈɪzrɪəlaɪt]US[ˈɪzriəˌlaɪt]
n
A member of the ancient Hebrew nation, especially in the biblical period.
n
A descendant of the patriarch Jacob (also called Israel).
Morpheme Breakdown
israel
ite
israel
ite
Etymology
The word 'Israelite' is a gentilic, or ethnic name, constructed in English from the ancient group name 'Israel' and the classical suffix '-ite'. The name 'Israel' itself originates from the Hebrew Bible, bestowed upon the patriarch Jacob after he wrestled with a divine being, meaning "he who strives with God". The suffix '-ite', entering English via Latin and Greek, is a standard linguistic tool for forming nouns denoting affiliation with a place, person, or group. Thus, an 'Israelite' literally means "one belonging to or descended from Israel", a term that specifically refers to the historical and biblical people of the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah, distinguishing them from the later, broader religious identity of 'Jews'.
Analysis
Structure: israel + ite
- israel: From the Hebrew personal/group name Yisra'el ("God contends" or "he who struggles with God"), via Greek Israēl and Latin Israel.
- ite: A suffix of Greek origin (-itēs), via Latin -ita, used to form demonyms (names for peoples) and followers.
Examples
According to the biblical narrative, the Israelites escaped from slavery in Egypt.
Archaeological evidence provides insights into the daily lives of the ancient Israelites.
The term Israelite is often used in a historical context to describe the people of the pre-exilic kingdoms.