halleluiah

halleluiah

A choir sings a halleluiah in the church.

Definition

Interjection (also used as a noun): 1. An exclamation of praise or joy: "halleluiah" is used as an expression of praise, gratitude, or joy, especially in a religious context, often directed toward God. It is derived from Hebrew, meaning "Praise Yah" (an abbreviated form of Yahweh). 2. A song or musical piece: As a noun, "halleluiah" refers to a piece of music or a song that praises God, often performed in church services or religious ceremonies.

Usage Examples

  • Interjection:

    • When the choir finished the final verse, the congregation shouted "Halleluiah!" (An exclamation of praise and joy.)
    • She heard the good news and cried, "Halleluiah, we are safe!" (An expression of relief and gratitude.)

  • Noun:

    • The composer wrote a beautiful halleluiah for the Easter service. (A musical piece of praise.)
    • The audience joined in singing the halleluiah at the end of the oratorio. (A song of praise.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to shout halleluiah": to express strong joy or relief.

    • After the long drought, farmers shouted halleluiah when the rain finally came. (They expressed great joy and thanks.)

  • "a halleluiah moment": a moment of sudden joy or triumph.

    • Winning the championship was a halleluiah moment for the entire team. (A moment of great celebration.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Hallelujah (n): a common alternative spelling of "halleluiah," meaning the same thing.

    • The choir sang a triumphant hallelujah. (A song of praise.)

  • Alleluia (n): a variant spelling, often used in liturgical contexts.

    • The congregation responded with a joyful alleluia. (A similar exclamation of praise.)
Synonyms
  • Praise: an expression of approval or admiration, especially for God.
  • Glory: a state of great honor or splendor, often used in religious exclamation.
  • Thanksgiving: an expression of gratitude, especially to God.
Related Idioms

  • Halleluiah chorus: a famous segment from Handel's "Messiah," often used metaphorically to describe a grand or joyful culmination.

    • When the project was finally completed, it felt like the halleluiah chorus. (A grand, joyful ending.)

  • Praise be: a similar exclamation of thanks or worship.

    • Praise be, the storm passed without damage. (Equivalent to "halleluiah" in meaning.)