levite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Historical, Religious
Quick answer
What does “levite” mean?
A member of the Israelite tribe of Levi, especially one appointed to assist the priests in the ancient Temple.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A member of the Israelite tribe of Levi, especially one appointed to assist the priests in the ancient Temple.
In a broader or metaphorical sense, a clergyman or religious functionary.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Slight variation in pronunciation.
Connotations
Identical: historical/Biblical reference.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to religious or academic discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “levite” in a Sentence
[the/xxx] Levite [verb, e.g., served, assisted][adjective, e.g., faithful, ancient] LeviteVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “levite” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Levitical duties were clearly outlined.
- He studied the Levite lineage.
American English
- Levitical law is complex.
- She traced her Levite heritage.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in theology, religious studies, and ancient history texts.
Everyday
Extremely rare; likely only in religious communities or discussions.
Technical
Specific to Biblical scholarship and liturgical history.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “levite”
- Misspelling as 'Levite' (with one 't').
- Using it as a general term for any priest, rather than the specific subordinate role.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, specialised term used primarily in religious, historical, or academic contexts.
The related adjective is 'Levitical' (e.g., Levitical law, Levitical duties). 'Levite' itself is almost exclusively a noun.
In the Hebrew Bible, priests (Kohanim) were a subset of the Levites descended from Aaron, with exclusive rights to perform sacrifices. Other Levites had supportive roles in the Temple.
Yes, the plural is 'Levites'.
A member of the Israelite tribe of Levi, especially one appointed to assist the priests in the ancient Temple.
Levite is usually formal, historical, religious in register.
Levite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈliː.vaɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈliˌvaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'LEVI's jeans' – a specific brand/tribe. A Levite was a specific member of the tribe of Levi.
Conceptual Metaphor
SUBSERVIENCE / SUPPORT (A Levite serves/supports the higher priestly authority).
Practice
Quiz
In a modern metaphorical sense, calling someone a 'Levite' might imply they are: