Midian

[ mid-ee-uhn ]

noun

1. a son of Abraham and Keturah. Genesis 25:1–4.

Midian

/ ˈmɪdɪən /

noun

1. a son of Abraham (Genesis 25:1–2)
2. a nomadic nation claiming descent from him

Derived Forms

• ˈMidianˌitish, adjective
• ˈMidianˌite, nounadjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Midian¹

Ultimately from Hebrew Midyān, of uncertain origin and meaning

Example Sentences

They had begun a hymn; she could hear the ninth baronet across the aisle, singing of the hosts of Midian.

From Project Gutenberg

Yer barley-cake hath come frae heaven, and the forces o' Midian are delivered owre to ye.

From Project Gutenberg

Rule thou over us, &c. for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian.

From Project Gutenberg

Purple habits are mentioned among the presents made to Gideon by the Israelites from the spoils of the kings of Midian.

From Project Gutenberg

He has just returned from a journey through the ancient land of Midian, undertaken at the special request of the Viceroy.

From Project Gutenberg