bris: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (Specialised/Religious context)Formal (within Jewish communities), Specialised
Quick answer
What does “bris” mean?
The Jewish ritual of circumcision of a male infant on the eighth day of life, as a sign of the covenant with God.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The Jewish ritual of circumcision of a male infant on the eighth day of life, as a sign of the covenant with God.
The ceremony and celebratory meal following the circumcision ritual.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: 'bris' is the common Yiddish/Ashkenazi Hebrew-influenced spelling in American English. In British English, the more direct Hebrew transliteration 'brit' (as in 'brit milah') is also frequently used and recognised.
Connotations
Both carry the same religious and cultural connotations. 'Bris' may sound more familiar and colloquial in American Jewish communities.
Frequency
More frequent in American English due to larger Ashkenazi Jewish population influence. In UK, 'circumcision ceremony' or the Hebrew 'brit milah' may be equally or more common.
Grammar
How to Use “bris” in a Sentence
The bris for [Baby's Name] will be on [Day].We are having/attending a bris.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bris” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The brit was held at the local synagogue with the mohel presiding.
- They discussed the arrangements for the baby's brit milah.
American English
- The bris is scheduled for next Monday morning.
- After the bris, everyone enjoyed a festive meal.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in theological, anthropological, or cultural studies discussing Jewish rites.
Everyday
Used within Jewish communities and by those familiar with the tradition.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bris”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bris”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bris”
- Using 'bris' to refer to non-Jewish circumcision.
- Misspelling as 'brits' (which refers to British people).
- Pronouncing it to rhyme with 'price' (it's a short 'i' as in 'sit').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily yes, for infants. Conversion ceremonies for adult males also involve circumcision but are not typically called a 'bris'.
Yes, though rare. The plural is 'brisim' or more commonly, 'bris ceremonies'.
A 'mohel' (pronounced moy-el), a person trained in the ritual and surgical procedure.
It is a specialised term. It is formal within its specific context but is not part of general, everyday English vocabulary.
The Jewish ritual of circumcision of a male infant on the eighth day of life, as a sign of the covenant with God.
Bris: in British English it is pronounced /brɪs/, and in American English it is pronounced /brɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
BRIS: Baby's Ritual In Synagogue (though it's often at home).
Conceptual Metaphor
THE COVENANT IS A PHYSICAL SIGN.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary language origin of the word 'bris' as used in English?