Saul

[sawl]

noun

1. the first king of Israel. 1 Samuel 9.

2. Also called Saul of Tarsus. the original name of the apostle Paul. Acts 9:1–30; 22:3.

3. a male given name.

Saul

/ sɔːl /

noun

1. Old Testament the first king of Israel (?1020–1000 _bc ). He led Israel successfully against the Philistines, but was in continual conflict with the high priest Samuel. He became afflicted with madness and died by his own hand; succeeded by David

2. New Testament the name borne by Paul prior to his conversion (Acts 9: 1–30)

Saul

1. The first king of Israel, who battled repeatedly with the Philistines. He often felt great despair, which was soothed by David playing his harp. Saul later became jealous of David and tried to have him killed in battle. After a prophesied defeat by the Philistines, Saul killed himself.

Saul was also the Apostle Paul's original name.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Saul¹

From Late Latin Saul, from Greek Saoúl, from Hebrew Shāʾūl “asked for (from God)”

Example Sentences

Saul Cahill, a work coach at a busy job centre in Gateshead and another PCS Union rep, says people with health conditions and disabled people are often the most difficult to support into work.

Read more on BBC

There’s a wealth of kind of poetry/music crossovers that I think work really well, like Saul Williams.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

At the Allegiant Stadium on Saturday night, the American attempts something historic against Mexico's Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez - becoming the first male fighter to be undisputed champion in three weight divisions.

Read more on BBC

For the musician, born Saul Hudson, it’s a dream fulfilled.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Saul Herbert of The Woodland Trust says more needs to be done to protect these "living legends".

Read more on BBC