VocabDictionary

satan

/ˈseɪ.tən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

In various religions, particularly Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, the chief spirit of evil and the adversary of God.

Example Sentences:
  • In many theological traditions, Satan is depicted as a fallen angel who rebelled against divine authority.
  • The literature of the period often portrayed the struggle between the forces of light and the influence of Satan.
2.noun

A person or entity regarded as exceptionally wicked, cruel, or malicious.

Example Sentences:
  • He was described by his former employees as a total Satan who took pleasure in their failures.
  • The dictator was painted as a modern-day Satan by the international press.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “satan” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “satan”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Hebrew word 'śāṭān' (שָׂטָן), meaning 'adversary' or 'accuser.' It entered English via the Greek 'satanas' and the Latin 'satanas.' Originally a common noun used to describe an opponent in a legal or military sense, it evolved in post-exilic Jewish and Christian theology into a proper noun representing the personification of evil and the primary adversary of God.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Satan is the 'Satan' of the story, the one who always brings 'Satanic' trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions About “satan

1. What is the meaning of “satan” in English?

In English, satan (noun) is defined as: “In various religions, particularly Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, the chief spirit of evil and the adversary of God.”.

2. How do you use “satan” in a sentence?

In many theological traditions, Satan is depicted as a fallen angel who rebelled against divine authority.

3. What are English synonyms of “satan”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “satan”?

Derived from the Hebrew word 'śāṭān' (שָׂטָן), meaning 'adversary' or 'accuser.' It entered English via the Greek 'satanas' and the Latin 'satanas.' Originally a common noun used to describe an opponent in a legal or military sense, it evolved in post-exilic Jewish and Christian theology into a proper noun representing the personification of evil and the primary adversary of God.