Hasmonean

American  

[haz-muh-nee-uhn] / ˌhæz məˈni ən /

Also Hasmonaean

noun

1. a member of a priestly family of Jewish rulers and leaders in Judea in the 1st and 2nd centuries b.c.

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Etymology

Origin of Hasmonean

First recorded in 1610–20; variant (with h-, from Hebrew kh- ) of Asmonean, from Late Latin Asmōnae(us) of Hasmōn (from Greek Asmṓnaios ) + -an

Example Sentences

A spokesperson for Hasmonean High School for Boys said: "At this challenging time we are working closely with all in our community and appropriate agencies to support our students' safety."

From BBC • May 7, 2026

At the same time, as both ancient and modern rabbis have understood, one cannot write the Maccabees, the military battle, or the Hasmonean dynasty entirely out of the Chanukah story.

From Slate • Dec. 10, 2023

Unless you’re familiar with Seleucids, the Hasmonean dynasty, Essenes, Idumea, Antipater and the multiple kings named Antiochus, you may find the first couple of chapters tough-going.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 26, 2014

After years of protracted warfare, the priests established a Hasmonean state that never ceased fighting Jews who disagreed with its rule.

From Slate • Nov. 28, 2013

This citadel had been built before Herod by the kings and high priests of the Hasmonean race, and they called it the Tower.

From The Makers and Teachers of Judaism by Kent, Charles Foster