deuteronomy: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Literary
Quick answer
What does “deuteronomy” mean?
The fifth book of the Old Testament, containing a repetition of the Mosaic law.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The fifth book of the Old Testament, containing a repetition of the Mosaic law.
Any repetition or second statement of laws, principles, or beliefs; sometimes used metaphorically for a revised or restated set of rules.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; both regions treat it as a proper noun referring to the Biblical book.
Connotations
Same religious/academic connotations in both regions.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties; primarily encountered in religious, academic, or literary contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “deuteronomy” in a Sentence
[Proper noun] (requires capitalisation when referring to the Biblical book)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in business contexts.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, and Biblical scholarship.
Everyday
Rarely used in everyday conversation except in religious communities.
Technical
Specific to religious/textual studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “deuteronomy”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “deuteronomy”
- Misspelling as 'deutronomy' or 'deutoronomy'
- Using lowercase 'd' when referring to the Biblical book.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it's a low-frequency word used primarily in religious, academic, or literary contexts.
Yes, in academic writing it can metaphorically describe any repetition or restatement of laws or principles.
/ˌduːtəˈrɑːnəmi/ - doo-tuh-RAH-nuh-mee
When referring to the Biblical book, yes. In metaphorical uses, sometimes lowercase is acceptable.
The fifth book of the Old Testament, containing a repetition of the Mosaic law.
Deuteronomy is usually formal/literary in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
DEUteronomy = DEU (sounds like 'do') a second time + NOMY (laws) = doing/laying down the laws a second time.
Conceptual Metaphor
SECOND LAW IS A REPETITION (based on Greek etymology: deuteros = second, nomos = law).
Practice
Quiz
What does 'Deuteronomy' literally mean?