noun
seraphim
SEHR-uh-fihm
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.”
noun
1
The highest order of angels in Christian and Jewish tradition, often described as fiery, six-winged beings surrounding God's throne.
"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.
Common mistake
"Seraphim" is already plural — the singular is "seraph."
Easily confused with
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like seraphim.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- seraphims
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
View more →Related words
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.
