Shibboleth

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A shibboleth ( SHIB-əl-eth, -⁠ith;) is any custom or tradition—usually a choice of phrasing or single word—that distinguishes one group of people from another. Historically, shibboleths have been used as passwords, ways of self-identification, signals of loyalty and affinity, ways of maintaining traditional segregation, or protection from threats. The word has also come to mean a moral formula held tenaciously and unreflectingly.

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