babylon
|ba-by-lon|
/ˈbæbɪlən/
ancient city → symbol of decadence/oppression
Etymology
'Babylon' originates from 'Akkadian', specifically the word 'Bāb-ilim' (or 'Bāb-ilu'), where 'bāb' meant 'gate' and 'ilim/ilu' meant 'god' (literally 'Gate of God').
'Babylon' passed into Greek as 'Babylṓn' and Latin as 'Babylon', later appearing in Old and Middle English in forms that developed into the modern English 'Babylon'.
Initially it referred specifically to the city's name ('Gate of God'), but over time it also acquired symbolic meanings (a decadent or oppressive power) in religious and political discourse.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an ancient city in Mesopotamia, the capital of several historical Babylonian states (notably the Neo-Babylonian Empire).
Babylon was famed for its walls and the Hanging Gardens, one of the ancient world's wonders.
Noun 2
in Judeo-Christian literature (especially Revelation), a metaphorical or symbolic city representing great corruption, decadence, or oppressive imperial power.
The prophet described a fallen city called Babylon as a symbol of moral and political decay.
Noun 3
in Rastafarian and some anti-colonial discourse, 'Babylon' refers to Western, colonial, or oppressive systems and institutions.
Many reggae songs criticize 'Babylon' as the oppressive system that must be resisted.
Noun 4
a modern place name (e.g., Babylon, a town on Long Island, New York).
We spent the weekend in Babylon, Long Island.
Last updated: 2025/12/23 14:19