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A shibboleth is a custom, behavior, or particular use of language which is believed to identify the user as a member or non-member of a particular group. Historical examples of shibboleths include the pronunciation of particular sounds, the willingness or unwillingness to eat certain foods, or the possession of particular arcane knowledge. Contemporary shibboleths include the use of 'leetspeak' or professional jargon.

The term shibboleth comes from the Hebrew for 'the grain-bearing portion of a plant'. The use of the word 'shibboleth' as a test is related in the Old Testament book of Judges, Chapter 12, v1-15. The language of the Ephraimites lacked a 'sh' sound; therefore Ephraimites would mispronounce 'shibboleth':


Modern Example of Pronunciation Illustrating Background

A modern example of a particular pronunciation demonstrating one's background or beliefs is how Barack Obama pronounces "Pakistan" in the way used by Muslims from that area of the world (as "Pokiston"), rather than using the common American pronunciation. This is an effect of his Muslim upbringing.