star of david: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low-to-MediumFormal / Neutral
Quick answer
What does “star of david” mean?
A six-pointed geometric star figure (✡), formed by two overlapping equilateral triangles, widely recognized as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A six-pointed geometric star figure (✡), formed by two overlapping equilateral triangles, widely recognized as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity.
A symbol used as a decorative motif, in astrology, in various esoteric and cultural contexts (sometimes called a hexagram), and as a heraldic device. In modern times, its primary association is with Judaism and Israel.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. The pronunciation of 'David' may vary slightly (/ˈdeɪ.vɪd/ in UK, /ˈdeɪ.vɪd/ or /ˈdeɪ.vəd/ in US).
Connotations
Identical in both varieties. The symbol's historical and religious significance is universally understood.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both, typically appearing in religious, historical, political, or cultural discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “star of david” in a Sentence
[The/Her/His] + Star of David + [verb: was displayed/worn/featured]A/An + [adjective] + Star of DavidVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “star of david” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The badge was star-of-Davided (extremely rare and non-standard).
American English
- (No standard verb form exists.)
adverb
British English
- (No standard adverbial form.)
American English
- (No standard adverbial form.)
adjective
British English
- He wore a Star-of-David necklace.
- The Star-of-David motif was clear.
American English
- She has a Star of David pendant.
- It was a Star-of-David design.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in branding for Jewish or Israeli companies/products.
Academic
Common in religious studies, history (especially Holocaust studies), and Middle Eastern politics.
Everyday
Used when discussing religion, symbols, jewelry, or Israeli culture.
Technical
Used in vexillology (study of flags), heraldry, and geometry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “star of david”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “star of david”
- Incorrect spelling: 'Star of David's', 'Stars of David' (less common plural).
- Using lowercase ('star of david').
- Misidentifying a five-pointed star (pentagram) as a Star of David.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Geometrically, yes, it is a hexagram. However, 'Star of David' specifically denotes the symbol's Jewish religious and cultural significance, while 'hexagram' is a purely geometric term.
The name 'Magen David' (Hebrew for 'Shield of David') originates from Jewish tradition, associating the symbol with King David, possibly representing divine protection.
No. Its widespread use as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish communities became prominent in the 17th century and later. The menorah was a more ancient symbol.
It depends on context. As a decorative geometric pattern, it is often fine. However, using it frivolously or in a manner mocking the Jewish faith would be considered offensive and disrespectful.
A six-pointed geometric star figure (✡), formed by two overlapping equilateral triangles, widely recognized as a symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity.
Star of david is usually formal / neutral in register.
Star of david: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstɑːr əv ˈdeɪ.vɪd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstɑːr əv ˈdeɪ.vɪd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No direct idioms, but referenced in phrases like 'under the Star of David' meaning under Jewish protection or identity.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine King David's shield shaped like a star; 'D' for David has two triangles (D looks like a triangle on its side). Two 'D's (for David) interlocked form the star.
Conceptual Metaphor
SYMBOL IS IDENTITY (e.g., 'She wears her Star of David proudly'); PROTECTION (as 'Shield' of David).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary cultural and religious association of the Star of David?