How Do You Spell ICHABOD?

Pronunciation: [ˈɪkɐbˌɒd] (IPA)

Ichabod is a name commonly used in American literature and popular culture. The spelling of this word follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription [ˈɪkəbɒd], with the stressed syllable being the first. The "i" is pronounced as a short "ih" sound, while the "ch" is a voiceless palato-alveolar affricate, and the following "a" is pronounced with a short "uh." The "o" and "b" are pronounced as they usually are, and the "d" is voiced.

ICHABOD Meaning and Definition

1. Ichabod is a term of biblical origin, mainly used as a proper noun, which holds various meanings. In the Hebrew language, Ichabod ('ī-kə-bäd) is a compound word made up of two parts: Icha meaning "no" or "without," and bod signifying "glory" or "splendor." Therefore, the combined meaning of Ichabod is commonly understood as "no glory" or "the glory has departed."

   In religious contexts, particularly drawing from the Old Testament, Ichabod is regarded as a symbolic term associated with the absence or loss of divine presence, favor, or blessing. It signifies a state of mourning or desolation, typically arising from a significant event or incident that causes the withdrawal of divine protection or joy.

   Beyond its biblical connotations, Ichabod has achieved literary fame through Washington Irving's acclaimed short story, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." In this narrative, Ichabod Crane is portrayed as the main protagonist, a lanky and superstitious schoolmaster who encounters the enigmatic figure of the Headless Horseman. This fictional account has popularized the name Ichabod, further embedding it in popular culture as a symbol of fear, uncertainty, or misfortune.

   In contemporary usage, the term Ichabod might be invoked metaphorically to describe a situation or person deemed to have lost their former glory or to connote the absence of a once positive attribute. Primarily, it serves as a reminder of a decline or departure from prosperity, happiness, or flourishing conditions.

Common Misspellings for ICHABOD

• ichabood
• Ichebod
• Chabaod
• Echeinoid
• Ickabood

Etymology of ICHABOD

The word "Ichabod" is of Hebrew origin and can be traced back to the Old Testament of the Bible. It first appears in the Book of 1 Samuel, chapter 4, verse 21. In this biblical context, "Ichabod" is the name given to the grandson of Eli, a priest and leader of Israel. The literal translation of "Ichabod" from Hebrew is "the glory has departed". The name symbolically represents the loss of divine favor or presence. Over time, "Ichabod" has become a name often associated with gloom, doom, or defeat.