Bible Dictionary
BYWORD
A byword is a saying, reproach, satire, or object of public talk. Scripture uses the term for people or nations reduced to astonishment, derision, or a proverb among others.
Definition
A byword is a saying, satire, reproach, topic of public talk, or object of remark. It may describe a person or nation reduced to astonishment, derision, ruin, or proverbial notoriety.
Biblical Usage
The Bible uses the term for the result of judgment or calamity and for those who become objects of satire or public discussion. The underlying words include ideas of consternation, astonishment, waste, satire, and a topic of conversation.
Historical Background
Several Hebrew terms lie behind the English word: one denotes consternation or an object of remark, another satire or proverb, and another a topic or object of talk.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>bi'-wurd: shammah = "consternation," "astonishment," "waste," "wonderful language," "object of remark" (De 28:37; 1Ki 9:7; 2Ch 7:20); mashal, or meshol = "a satire," "byword" (Job 17:6; Ps 44:14); millah, or milleh = "a topic," "object of talk," "byword" (Job 30:9).</p>