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 "Without reprieve, adjudged to death, For want of well pronouncing shibboleth." Also used in an extended sense. "The th, with its twofold value, is... the shibboleth of foreigners."
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