BIRTHRIGHT Meaning and
Definition
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Birthright is a noun that refers to a particular entitlement, privilege, or inheritance that one possesses by virtue of being born into a particular family, community, or nation. It encapsulates the notion that certain rights or benefits are automatically conferred upon individuals based solely on the circumstances of their birth.
This term is often used to describe an inherent right or inheritance that cannot be taken away or denied. It implies a natural and fundamental claim that every individual possesses as a result of their birth. Birthright often encompasses a range of entitlements, such as legal rights, social privileges, cultural traditions, or ancestral heritage, which are passed down from generation to generation.
The concept of birthright has historical and cultural connotations, particularly in relation to monarchy and aristocracy, where privileges or titles of nobility are inherited through bloodlines. Additionally, it has broader philosophical implications, expressing the idea that every person has inherent rights or benefits, regardless of social status or material wealth. Birthright is sometimes invoked in discussions of human rights or social justice as a means of asserting equal opportunities and fair treatment for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances at birth. In essence, birthright represents a fundamental, unalienable, and often cherished aspect of a person's identity and heritage.
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A right or privilege which any one is entitled to by birth.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for BIRTHRIGHT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for BIRTHRIGHT
Etymology of BIRTHRIGHT
The word "birthright" can be broken down into two components: "birth" and "right".
The term "birth" dates back to Middle English and is derived from Old Norse "byrðr" or Old English "byrth". This word ultimately originates from Proto-Germanic "burdi", meaning "birth" or "origin".
The word "right" traces its roots to Old English "riht", which means "just" or "straight". It comes from the Proto-Germanic word "rehtaz", meaning "correct" or "righteous".
When combined, "birthright" refers to a right or entitlement that is inherent or acquired through birth or ancestry.
Idioms with the word BIRTHRIGHT
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sell (one's) birthright for a bowl of soup
The idiom "sell (one's) birthright for a bowl of soup" refers to making a foolish or shortsighted decision by giving up something of great value or importance in exchange for something of trivial or immediate worth. It is derived from the biblical story in the book of Genesis, where Esau sells his birthright as the eldest son to his younger brother Jacob in return for a simple meal. The phrase is often used to convey the idea of prioritizing instant gratification over long-term benefits or sacrificing something valuable for temporary satisfaction.
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sell (one's) birthright for a mess of pottage
The idiom "sell (one's) birthright for a mess of pottage" refers to making a foolish or short-sighted decision by giving up a valuable or significant inheritance or right in exchange for something of little worth or temporary satisfaction. It originates from the biblical story in Genesis where Esau, for a momentary craving, sold his birthright (which entitled him to be the firstborn heir of Isaac) to his younger brother Jacob in exchange for a bowl of lentil stew (also known as pottage). Thus, this expression signifies sacrificing long-term benefits or important possessions for immediate gratification or trivial gains.
Similar spelling words for BIRTHRIGHT
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