DREIDEL Meaning and
Definition
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A dreidel refers to a small four-sided spinning top, traditionally made of wood or plastic, which is integral to the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. This familiar toy holds significant cultural and religious importance, particularly in Jewish homes during the lighting of the Hanukkah menorah. The dreidel features four Hebrew letters – Nun, Gimel, Hey, and Shin – that stand for the phrase "Nes Gadol Haya Sham," translating to "A Great Miracle Happened There."
This spinning top game is played by multiple participants, usually with a pot or collection of treats in the middle. Each player takes turns spinning the dreidel, and depending on which letter comes up when it lands, they either gain or give up something from the pot. For example, if the dreidel displays the letter Gimel, the player takes everything in the pot. If it lands on Hey, the player receives half of the pot's contents. If it lands on Shin, the player must put an item into the pot, and if it lands on Nun, nothing happens, and the next player takes their turn.
Rooted in Jewish folklore and tradition, the dreidel serves as a reminder of the historical significance of Hanukkah and celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. Today, it continues to be a cherished symbol of unity, joy, and the perseverance of the Jewish people.
Common Misspellings for DREIDEL
Etymology of DREIDEL
The word "dreidel" has its origins in Yiddish, a language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews in Central and Eastern Europe. The Yiddish word "dreydl" (also spelled "dreydl" or "draydel") is derived from the German word "drehen", meaning "to turn" or "to spin". The spinning top game referred to as "dreidel" gained popularity among Jewish communities during Hanukkah celebrations. The word has become widely used among English-speaking Jewish communities to refer to this traditional toy and the game associated with it.
