Shibboleth
A "Shibboleth" is a word, phrase, or custom that distinguishes one group of people from another. It often serves as a linguistic marker, helping to identify members of a particular community or culture. The term originates from a biblical story in the Book of Judges, where the pronunciation of the word "Shibboleth" was used to identify members of the Ephraim tribe.
In modern contexts, shibboleths can include accents, jargon, or specific behaviors that signal belonging to a group. They can also be used in discussions about social identity, inclusion, and exclusion, highlighting how language and customs shape group dynamics.