maror: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowReligious/Formal
Quick answer
What does “maror” mean?
Bitter herbs, typically horseradish or romaine lettuce, eaten during the Jewish Passover Seder to symbolize the bitterness of slavery in Egypt.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Bitter herbs, typically horseradish or romaine lettuce, eaten during the Jewish Passover Seder to symbolize the bitterness of slavery in Egypt.
In a broader metaphorical sense, can refer to any bitter experience or reminder of suffering, though this usage is rare outside Jewish religious contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The word is used identically in Jewish communities in both regions.
Connotations
Solely religious and cultural connotations related to Passover observance.
Frequency
Equally rare in both dialects, appearing only in texts or speech about Passover.
Grammar
How to Use “maror” in a Sentence
The maror is eaten [with charoset].We dip the maror [into the charoset].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, or cultural anthropology texts discussing Jewish rituals.
Everyday
Used only by Jewish individuals or families in the context of preparing for or conducting a Passover Seder.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “maror”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “maror”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “maror”
- Using it as a general synonym for 'bitterness'.
- Pronouncing it /ˈmærər/ (like 'marrow').
- Spelling it as 'marror'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditionally, it is made from bitter herbs, most commonly horseradish root or the leaves of romaine lettuce.
It is eaten during the Passover Seder, specifically after the telling of the Exodus story and before the meal.
No, it is not used that way. It refers exclusively to the ritual food item. Use 'bitter' or 'cynical' for a person.
No, they are opposites on the Seder plate. Maror is bitter, symbolising suffering. Charoset is sweet, symbolising the mortar used by slaves.
Bitter herbs, typically horseradish or romaine lettuce, eaten during the Jewish Passover Seder to symbolize the bitterness of slavery in Egypt.
Maror is usually religious/formal in register.
Maror: in British English it is pronounced /məˈrɔː/, and in American English it is pronounced /məˈrɔr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MORE OR' less bitter? MAROR is definitely the bitter herb.
Conceptual Metaphor
BITTERNESS IS SUFFERING / THE PAST IS A TASTE.
Practice
Quiz
In which religious observance is 'maror' a key component?