Jericho

/ˈdʒɛrɪkoʊ/ noun

Definition

An ancient city in the West Bank, considered one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Also refers to the biblical story of its walls falling down.

Etymology

From Hebrew 'Yeriho', possibly meaning 'fragrant' or related to the Canaanite moon god Yarikh. The city's name has been adapted through Greek 'Iericho' and Latin 'Ierichus' into modern English.

Kelly Says

Jericho holds the remarkable distinction of being inhabited for over 11,000 years, making it older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The phrase 'walls of Jericho' has become synonymous with seemingly impregnable barriers that unexpectedly collapse, influencing language far beyond its religious origins.

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