gaon

noun

ga·​on
ˈgäˌōn
plural geonim
gāˈōnə̇m,
ˌgāōˈnēm
also gaons
often capitalized
1
: a Jewish head of one of the Babylonian academies at Sura and Pumbedita from about a.d. 589–1038 and usually an eminent religious scholar and judicial authority
used as a title of honor
compare exilarch
2
: an outstanding intellectual and Talmudic scholar
the celebrated 18th century gaon of Vilna

Word History

Etymology

Hebrew gā'ōn majesty, excellence (plural gĕ'ōnīm)

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Dictionary Entries Near gaon

Cite this Entry

“Gaon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gaon. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

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