Karaism

noun Kara·ism \ˈker-ə-ˌi-zəm, ˈka-rə-\

Definition of KARAISM

: a Jewish doctrine originating in Baghdad in the eighth century that rejects rabbinism and talmudism and bases its tenets on Scripture alone

— Kara·ite \-ˌīt\ noun

Late Hebrew qĕrāīm Karaites, from Hebrew qārā to read

First Known Use: circa 1883

Next Word in the Dictionary: karaitPrevious Word in the Dictionary: KaradaghAll Words Near: Karaism

What made you want to look up Karaism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears