Exodus: meaning, definitions and examples

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exodus

[ˈɛksədəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

biblical

The departure of the Israelites from Egypt, led by Moses.

Synonyms

departure, emigration, migration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
exodus	Used to describe a large-scale departure of people from a place, often due to hardship or danger. It often has a dramatic or urgent connotation. There was a mass exodus from the city after the earthquake The exodus of refugees continued throughout the summer
departure	Indicates someone leaving a place. This can be used in both casual and formal settings and can describe leaving for any reason, including travel, moving, or other changes. Her departure was sudden and unexpected The train's departure is scheduled for 6 PM
emigration	Refers to the act of leaving one's own country to live permanently in another. It is often used in discussions about demographic trends or policies. The 19th century saw significant emigration from Europe to the Americas Emigration rates have increased due to economic instability
migration	Describes the movement of people or animals from one place to another, often cyclically or seasonally. It can refer to both temporary and permanent movement. Bird migration patterns are influenced by climate change The city has a high rate of internal migration from rural areas

Examples of usage

The exodus of the Israelites from Egypt is a central event in the Old Testament.
Moses played a crucial role in leading the exodus of the Israelites.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

A mass departure or emigration.

Synonyms

departure, emigration, migration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
exodus	Refers to a large, often sudden, movement of people leaving a place, usually under distressing circumstances or for significant reasons. There was a mass exodus from the town after the factory closed The civil war led to an exodus of refugees
departure	General term for leaving a place, used in everyday situations, such as travel or leaving a job. Her departure from the company was unexpected The train's departure is scheduled for 6 PM
emigration	Specifically refers to the act of leaving one's country to settle permanently in another country. Economic factors often lead to emigration The country's harsh policies resulted in an increase in emigration
migration	Refers to the movement of people or animals from one region to another, which can be temporary or permanent. Birds' migration patterns are studied by scientists The family’s migration from the countryside to the city was driven by job opportunities

Examples of usage

The exodus of refugees from the war-torn country was heartbreaking.
The exodus of young people from rural areas to cities is a common trend.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'exodus' comes from the Greek word 'exodos,' meaning 'a way out' or 'exit,' often used in historical contexts.
The biblical story of Exodus describes how the Israelites left Egypt, symbolizing freedom from oppression.
Ancient cultures frequently experienced mass migrations that were termed exoduses, illustrating the search for safety and better living conditions.

Literature

In literature, 'exodus' often symbolizes a journey to freedom, as seen in various novels and stories depicting escape from difficulties.
The biblical Exodus is a foundational text that has influenced countless works of theology, literature, and social justice movements.
Dante's 'Divine Comedy' uses the idea of exodus to represent the spiritual journey of leaving sin behind to seek redemption.

Art

'Exodus' has inspired numerous art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and films that depict themes of migration and freedom.
One famous painting by Leon Cogniet illustrates the moment of departure of the Israelites, capturing the emotional weight of exodus.
Modern cinema often references the idea of exodus in stories about immigration and the pursuit of a better life.

Psychology

An exodus can impact mental health, often representing hope and new beginnings for those fleeing difficult circumstances.
Research indicates that large-scale migrations can lead to a sense of loss, as community ties are disrupted during an exodus.
The psychological journey of an exodus is tied to themes of resilience and adaptation in new environments.

Sociology

Sociologists study exoduses to understand the reasons behind mass movements, including war, famine, and economic shifts.
The phenomenon of exodus can reshape demographics, significantly impacting cultures and communities left behind and those arriving.
Social movements often draw on the symbolism of exodus to unite groups in the cause of seeking justice and change.

Translations

Translations of the word "exodus" in other languages:

🇵🇹 êxodo

🇮🇳 प्रस्थान

🇩🇪 Exodus

🇮🇩 eksodus

🇺🇦 вихід

🇵🇱 exodus

🇯🇵 出エジプト

🇫🇷 exode

🇪🇸 éxodo

🇹🇷 çıkış

🇰🇷 출애굽

🇸🇦 خروج

🇨🇿 exodus

🇸🇰 exodus

🇨🇳 出埃及

🇸🇮 izhod

🇮🇸 útgöngubók

🇰🇿 шығу

🇬🇪 გადასვლა

🇦🇿 çıxış

🇲🇽 éxodo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,612, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15609 answerable
15610 catholic
15611 femininity
15612 exodus
15613 riddle
15614 shrank
15615 jagged
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