Definitions for kittel

This page provides all possible meanings and translations of the word kittel

Webster Dictionary

  1. Kittel(verb)

    see Kittle, v. t


  1. Kittel

    A kittel, also spelled kitl, is a white robe which serves as a burial shroud for male Jews. It is also worn on special occasions by Ashkenazi Jews. In western Europe this garment is called a Sargenes. The word Sargenes is related to the Old French Serge as well as Latin Serica. The term has mainly fallen out of use in modern times, except in certain neighborhoods such as Washington Heights in New York. The kittel, or sargenes, is used as a burial shroud, providing simple dress that assures equality for all in death. Because Jewish law dictates that the dead are buried without anything in the coffin other than simple linen clothes, a kittel has no pockets. It is also worn by married men on Yom Kippur and in some instances on Rosh Hashanah. The wearing of a kittel on the High Holidays is symbolically linked to its use as a burial shroud, and, to the verse "our sins shall be made as white as snow". Many Jews also wear a kittel when leading the Passover Seder. In some communities, the cantor wears it during certain special services during the year, such as the first night of Selichot, the seventh day of the Holiday of Sukkot, the Musaf prayers of Shemini Atzeret and the first day of Passover, where the prayers for rain and dew are respectively recited. According to many traditions a bridegroom wears a kittel on his wedding day.


  1. Chaldean Numerology

    The numerical value of kittel in Chaldean Numerology is: 1

  2. Pythagorean Numerology

    The numerical value of kittel in Pythagorean Numerology is: 5

Images & Illustrations of kittel


Find a translation for the kittel definition in other languages:

Select another language:

Discuss these kittel definitions with the community:

Word of the Day


Please enter your email address:     


Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:


"kittel." STANDS4 LLC, 2016. Web. 29 May 2016. <>.

Are we missing a good definition for kittel? Don't keep it to yourself...

Nearby & related entries:

Alternative searches for kittel:

Thanks for your vote! We truly appreciate your support.