pilpul

[ pil-poo l ]

/ ˈpɪl pʊl /

noun

a method of disputation among rabbinical scholars regarding the interpretation of Talmudic rules and principles or Scripture that involves the development of careful and often excessively subtle distinctions.

Nearby words

pilotless, pilotless aircraft, pilotless ignition, pilotweed, pilous, pilpul, pils, pilsen, pilsener, pilsner, pilsudski

Origin of pilpul

1890–95; < Aramaic, Hebrew pilpūl, akin to pilpēl to search, debate

Related formspil·pul·ist, nounpil·pul·is·tic, adjective