Gabbai

American  

[gah-bahy, gah-bahy, guh-bahy] / gɑˈbaɪ, ˈgɑ baɪ, gəˈbaɪ /

noun

(sometimes lowercase)

plural

Gabbaim,

plural

Gabbais

1. a minor official of a synagogue, having limited ceremonial or administrative functions.

2. (in the early Middle Ages) a government official charged with collecting taxes.

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Etymology

Origin of Gabbai

Literally, “treasurer”

Example Sentences

This is an important year, said David Dario Gabbai, a 93-year-old survivor who traveled to Poland this week from his home in California.

From Washington Post • Jan. 27, 2015

The pulpit—yes, the pulpit—was swathed in the Union Jack; and looking towards the box of the Parnass and Gabbai, she saw it was occupied by officers with gold sashes.

From Ghetto Comedies by Zangwill, Israel

So violently did he weep that the Gabbai or treasurer—one of the most pious master-bootmakers—gave him the "Peace" salutation after the service.

From Dreamers of the Ghetto by Zangwill, Israel

Now the whilom Gabbai and Town Councillor found himself almost patronized—as a poor provincial—by this mincing, genteel clerical couple.

From Ghetto Comedies by Zangwill, Israel

He heaved a deep sigh at his own hypocrisy, and the Gabbai sighed in response.

From Dreamers of the Ghetto by Zangwill, Israel