seraphim
Seraphim (noun) means the highest order of angels in Christian and Jewish tradition, often described as fiery, six-winged beings surrounding God's throne. Example: “The painting showed seraphim hovering above the altar in a blaze of light.”
How to use seraphim
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA class of angel described in religious texts as being closest to God, often pictured surrounded by fire.
"Seraphim" is already plural — the singular is "seraph."
Word forms
seraphims plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The painting showed _____ hovering above the altar in a blaze of light.
Etymology
From Biblical Hebrew śərāp̄îm, plural of śārāp̄ (possibly "fiery ones"), via Greek and Latin.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “seraphim” mean?
The word “seraphim” means the highest order of angels in Christian and Jewish tradition, often described as fiery, six-winged beings surrounding God's throne. In plain terms, a class of angel described in religious texts as being closest to God, often pictured surrounded by fire.
How do you pronounce “seraphim”?
“Seraphim” is pronounced SEHR-uh-fihm (/ˈsɛɹ.əˌfɪm/ in IPA).
How do you use “seraphim” in a sentence?
Here is “seraphim” used in a sentence: “The painting showed seraphim hovering above the altar in a blaze of light.”
What part of speech is “seraphim”?
“Seraphim” is a noun.
Where does the word “seraphim” come from?
The word “seraphim” comes from Latin. From Biblical Hebrew śərāp̄îm, plural of śārāp̄ (possibly "fiery ones"), via Greek and Latin.