Balaam

[ bey-luhm ]

noun

1. (in the Bible) a Mesopotamian diviner who, when commanded by Balak to curse the Israelites, blessed them and uttered favorable prophecies after having been rebuked by the ass he rode.

Balaam

/ ˈbeɪlæm /

noun

1. Old Testament a Mesopotamian diviner who, when summoned to curse the Israelites, prophesied future glories for them instead, after being reproached by his ass (Numbers 22–23)

Other Words From

• Ba·laam·ite [bey, -l, uh, -mahyt], noun
• Ba·laam·it·i·cal [bey-l, uh, -, mit, -i-k, uh, l], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Balaam¹

From Late Latin Balaam, from Greek Balaám, from Hebrew Bilʿām, of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Uncle, you and Brother Balaam are bosom friends—why don't you get his paper to persecute us, too?

From Project Gutenberg

"I reckon you can, Charley Balaam, if you are friendly," said Yancy.

From Project Gutenberg

Squire Balaam removed his spectacles and leaned back in his chair.

From Project Gutenberg