sheyner Yid

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Definitions

  • n. An honorable, well-mannered Jew.

Example Sentences

  • “The butcher on our block was hailed by one and all as a sheyner Yid because of his singular quietness, his air of gravity and refinement, and his exemplary modesty.” (NJY)

  • "The coachman who, while greasing his wagon wheels, also decided to davven Minhah (recite the afternoon prayers) evoked different reactions from passersby. The emet-type exclaimed: 'Sheygetz! While you davven, you grease wheels?' The hesed-type said: 'Ah, a sheyner Yid! [a worthy Jew!] Even when he greases his wheels, he davvens!'" (source)

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Languages of Origin

  • Yiddish

Etymology

  • שײנער ייִד sheyner yid 'lit. beautiful Jew'

      • Who Uses This

      • Older: Jews who are middle-aged and older
      • Ashkenazim: Jews with Ashkenazi heritage

      Regions

      • North America

      Dictionaries

      • The New Joys of Yiddish, by Leo Rosten and Lawrence Bush (New York, 2003[1968]).

      Alternative Spellings

      shayner Yid, shainer Yid, sheiner Yid

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