Shibboleth

Webster's Dictionary of the English Language

·noun Also in an extended sense.

II. Shibboleth ·noun Hence, the criterion, test, or watchword of a party; a party cry or pet phrase.

III. Shibboleth ·noun A word which was made the criterion by which to distinguish the Ephraimites from the Gileadites. The Ephraimites, not being able to pronounce sh, called the word sibboleth. ·see Judges xii.

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