seraphim: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Literary, religious, formal
Quick answer
What does “seraphim” mean?
An order of angels of the highest rank in Christian angelology, typically depicted with three pairs of wings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An order of angels of the highest rank in Christian angelology, typically depicted with three pairs of wings.
A plural noun referring to celestial beings associated with light, ardor, and purity; sometimes used figuratively to describe people or things of extraordinary beauty, purity, or fervor.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Pronunciation varies slightly.
Connotations
Identical connotations in both varieties: religious, exalted, archaic, poetic.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both British and American English.
Grammar
How to Use “seraphim” in a Sentence
The seraphim [VERB] (e.g., surround, sing, praise).A [ADJECTIVE] seraphim (e.g., flaming, celestial).Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theology, religious studies, and literary analysis.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would be used only in specific religious discussion or as a poetic flourish.
Technical
Used as a proper noun (Seraphim) in angelology and biblical scholarship.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “seraphim”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “seraphim”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “seraphim”
- Using it as a singular noun (e.g., 'a seraphim'). The singular is 'seraph.'
- Misspelling as 'serafim' or 'seraphin.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is exclusively plural. The singular form is 'seraph.'
It is highly unusual. Its use is almost entirely confined to religious, literary, or academic contexts.
In traditional Christian angelology, seraphim are the highest order, associated with love and light, often depicted with six wings. Cherubim are a different, also high-ranking order, associated with knowledge and guarding.
The standard pronunciation is /ˈsɛrəfɪm/ (SEH-ruh-fim), with the stress on the first syllable.
An order of angels of the highest rank in Christian angelology, typically depicted with three pairs of wings.
Seraphim is usually literary, religious, formal in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SERAPHIM are the SERious, high-ranking angels with FIM (six) wings.
Conceptual Metaphor
HIGH STATUS IS HIGH (in a hierarchy), PURITY IS LIGHT/HEAT.
Practice
Quiz
What is the correct singular form of 'seraphim'?