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Shibboleth
01
a tradition, principle, or practice that identifies or characterizes a specific group or class
Examples
Wearing a suit and tie to work every day became a shibboleth of professionalism in the corporate world.
The elaborate tea ceremony is considered a shibboleth of Japanese culture.
02
a specific word or phrase used to identify or differentiate individuals
Examples
During wartime, soldiers often used a shibboleth to distinguish friend from foe based on their accent or pronunciation.
The bouncer at the club used a shibboleth to verify that only members were allowed entry.
