Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • An imaginary place considered to be perfect or ideal: Zion is used to represent a utopian place of peace, freedom, and perfection.
   • A synonym for the city of Jerusalem: Historically, Zion refers to a specific hill in Jerusalem, but the term has come to symbolize the entire city, especially in religious and poetic contexts.
   • The Jewish people or their homeland: Zion can personify the Jewish nation, its aspirations, or its spiritual center.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • For many, the community was a Zion, a refuge from the world's troubles.
  • The pilgrims longed to reach Zion, the holy city.
  • The prophet spoke to the daughter of Zion, calling for renewal.

Advanced Usage

• "Zionism": A movement for the development and protection of a Jewish nation in what is now Israel.

  • Modern political Zionism emerged in the late 19th century.

• "Zion National Park": A U.S. national park in Utah, named for the Hebrew word.

  • They hiked the narrows in Zion National Park.

Variants and Related Words

• Zionist (noun/adjective): A supporter of Zionism; relating to Zionism.

  • She was a dedicated Zionist.

• Zionic (adjective): Pertaining to Zion, often in a religious or idealistic sense.

  • The poem described a Zionic vision of peace.

Synonyms

• Utopia: An imagined perfect place (for the ideal sense).
• Jerusalem: The actual city (for the geographical sense).
• Promised Land: The land promised by God to the Israelites, often associated with Zion.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Daughter of Zion: A poetic personification of Jerusalem or its inhabitants.

  • The scriptures often address the daughter of Zion.

• Mount Zion: The original hill fortress in Jerusalem, a key historical and religious site.

  • The ancient city of David was built on Mount Zion.

Noun

1. an imaginary place considered to be perfect or ideal
2. Jewish republic in southwestern Asia at eastern end of Mediterranean; formerly part of Palestine
3. originally a stronghold captured by David (the 2nd king of the Israelites); above it was built a temple and later the name extended to the whole hill; finally it became a synonym for the city of Jerusalem
   • the inhabitants of Jerusalem are personified as `the daughter of Zion'