Gabbai

American  

[gah-bahy, gah-bahy, guh-bahy] / gɑˈbaɪ, ˈgɑ baɪ, gəˈbaɪ /

noun

(sometimes lowercase)

Gabbaim, plural Gabbais plural

1. a minor official of a synagogue, having limited ceremonial or administrative functions.

2. (in the early Middle Ages) a government official charged with collecting taxes.

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• Gabbaim
  plural
• Gabbais
  plural

Etymology

Origin of Gabbai

Literally, “treasurer”

Example Sentences

This is an important year, said David Dario Gabbai, a 93-year-old survivor who traveled to Poland this week from his home in California.

From Washington Post • Jan. 27, 2015

So, trade being brisk, the Gabbai relented and bargained, and the Red Beadle sped to his friend's abode and flew up the four flights of stairs.

From Dreamers of the Ghetto by Zangwill, Israel

Good Shabbos to you, Mr. Gabbai, and kindly mind your own business in future—your locomotives and your sidings and your stinking tunnels.'

From Ghetto Comedies by Zangwill, Israel

Now the whilom Gabbai and Town Councillor found himself almost patronized—as a poor provincial—by this mincing, genteel clerical couple.

From Ghetto Comedies by Zangwill, Israel

"The Gabbai wants another hand, and he is ready to take you."

From Dreamers of the Ghetto by Zangwill, Israel