DictionaryrabbiJewish religious teacher
noun

rabbi

RAB-eye/ˈræbaɪ/

A Jewish religious teacher or leader.

The rabbi answers our questions about Jewish traditions after services.

A rabbi teaches two adult congregants beside an open Torah scroll in a synagogue, using a Torah pointer while they attentively follow his instruction.
Etymology

The pieces mean “my master,” a respectful form of address. That title became a designation for a teacher or authority in Jewish religious law.

In context

City of Santa Rosa, California363:25
I'm Jewish and my rabbi, Rabbi Irwin Keller, spoke in Cotati and has a few words that weren't said yet.
City of Santa Rosa Council Meeting February 13, 2024

More examples

  • A rabbi officiates at their wedding.
  • Two rabbis lead a discussion about the Torah.
  • She asks her rabbi for advice during a difficult time.

Forms

rabbi · rabbis

rabbinic adjective — Relating to rabbis or their teachings.

Similar words

cleric
Cleric covers religious leaders across faiths, not specifically Judaism.
teacher
Teacher is broader and does not imply religious leadership.