σεμνός
semnós
G4586 predicate adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Worthy of respect or veneration; possessing an aspect of dignity or seriousness. The term describes those whose conduct, character, or bearing invokes honor and commands esteem. In different contexts, it can refer to behavior or persons exhibiting dignity, seriousness, nobility, or moral weight.
Semantic Range
worthy of respect, honorable, revered, dignified, noble, serious, grave, august
Root / Etymology
From the root σέβ- (to revere, to feel awe), derived from σέβομαι (to worship, to show reverence). The formation suggests a characteristic related to evoking reverence or respect.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, σεμνός describes persons, deities, or things deemed worthy of reverence, especially on religious or public grounds (e.g., temples, officials, elders). In the Hellenistic and Koine periods—including the New Testament—its usage expands to include moral dignity, gravity of character, and a seriousness not merely of somberness but of due honor befitting someone's role or conduct (cf. Philippians 4:8, 1 Timothy 3:8,11; Titus 2:2). In the Septuagint, it translates terms conveying greatness or majesty, especially in reference to God or attributes of persons. English translations such as 'grave,' 'dignified,' or 'honorable' each reflect facets of the term but risk narrowing its broader connotation of inspiring respect. It stands in contrast to terms indicating frivolity or undignified behavior.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from σέβομαι; venerable, i.e. honorable:--grave, honest.
Root Family
σεμνός (semnos) — worthy of reverence, dignified, honorable, noble, serious
Word Forms
3 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4586-03 |
σεμνούς | semnous | ADJ.S ACC M PL |
dignified | honorable ones | honorable ones | 2 |
G4586-02 |
σεμνάς | semnas | ADJ.S ACC F PL |
dignified | honorable women | honorable | 1 |
G4586-01 |
σεμνά | semna | ADJ.P NOM N PL |
honorable | dignified things | dignified things | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
4 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4586-01 |
Philippians 4:8 | σεμνά | semna | ADJ.P NOM N PL |
honorable | dignified things | dignified things |
G4586-03 |
1 Timothy 3:8 | σεμνούς | semnous | ADJ.S ACC M PL |
dignified | honorable ones | honorable ones |
G4586-02 |
1 Timothy 3:11 | σεμνάς | semnas | ADJ.S ACC F PL |
dignified | honorable women | honorable |
G4586-03 |
Titus 2:2 | σεμνούς | semnous | ADJ.P ACC M PL |
dignified | honorable ones | honorable ones |