Samaritan
/səˈmɛr.ɪ.tən/noun
A person from Samaria, often used to refer to someone who helps others in need.
Did you know?The term 'Samaritan' originally referred to inhabitants of Samaria, a region central to a biblical narrative filled with themes of mercy and enmity.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Hebrew
Hebrew
שֹׁמְרוֹן (Shomron)
“The name of a region known for its complex history and conflict with ancient Israel.”
1st Century
Greek
Σαμαρείτης (Samareitēs)
“A term used in the New Testament to denote the inhabitants of Samaria, often in the context of a parable about kindness.”
Middle English
English
samaritane
“Adopted from Old French, referring to a compassionate person, especially in the context of helping others.”
Modern English
English
Samaritan
“Evolved to denote anyone who performs acts of kindness or charity, transcending its geographical roots.”
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