amalek: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowSpecialized, Literary, Religious
Quick answer
What does “amalek” mean?
A biblical figure, descendant of Esau, and the eponymous ancestor of the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe presented as a persistent enemy of ancient Israel.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A biblical figure, descendant of Esau, and the eponymous ancestor of the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe presented as a persistent enemy of ancient Israel.
In historical and religious contexts, it refers to the ancient tribal group or their territory. In extended metaphorical use, particularly in Jewish discourse, it can symbolize an archetypal or existential enemy bent on destruction.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage, spelling, or meaning. The term is used identically in both varieties within theological, academic, or historical discourse.
Connotations
Identical connotations rooted in the biblical narrative of enmity. May carry a heavy metaphorical weight in specific religious or cultural commentary.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to specific contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “amalek” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (as subject/object of historical narrative)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “amalek” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Amalekite attack was sudden.
- An Amalekite strategy.
American English
- The Amalekite assault was ruthless.
- Amalekite territory.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in theology, biblical studies, ancient Near Eastern history, and comparative literature.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
A specific ethnonym in historical/archaeological texts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “amalek”
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'an amalek').
- Mispronouncing with stress on the last syllable (/æm.ə.ˈlek/).
- Assuming it has contemporary secular usage.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is used almost exclusively in religious, historical, academic, or literary contexts, not in everyday modern English.
Yes, particularly in Jewish theological and political discourse, it can metaphorically represent an existential or genocidal enemy.
The standard pronunciation in both British and American English is /ˈæm.ə.lek/, with stress on the first syllable.
It functions primarily as a proper noun. The related adjective is 'Amalekite'.
A biblical figure, descendant of Esau, and the eponymous ancestor of the Amalekites, a nomadic tribe presented as a persistent enemy of ancient Israel.
Amalek is usually specialized, literary, religious in register.
Amalek: in British English it is pronounced /ˈæm.ə.lek/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæm.ə.lek/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Blot out the memory of Amalek (from religious injunction)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'A-malicious-attack': Amalek attacked the Israelites from behind in the biblical story (Deuteronomy 25:18).
Conceptual Metaphor
AMALEK IS AN EXISTENTIAL THREAT; AMALEK IS EMBODIED EVIL (in metaphorical extensions).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the term 'Amalek' primarily used today?