shibboleth
/ˈʃɪbəlɪθ/
noun
- A custom, phrase, or belief that distinguishes a particular group or is used to identify members of that group.
- Using the word 'pop' instead of 'soda' can be a shibboleth for people from certain regions.
- In some professions, using specific jargon becomes a shibboleth that shows you belong.
- The secret handshake was a shibboleth among members of the club.
- An old-fashioned or out-of-date belief or principle that is no longer widely accepted.
- Many politicians still repeat the shibboleth that tax cuts always help the economy.
- The shibboleth that 'children should be seen and not heard' has been abandoned by most modern parents.
- The idea that you must work at the same company for life is a shibboleth from a bygone era.