Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hametz

noun

huh-METZ

Definition

Hametz (or chametz) refers to any leavened foods made from wheat, barley, rye, oats, or spelt that have risen or fermented, particularly during Passover in Jewish traditions.

Examples

During Passover, many households meticulously search for hametz in every corner, ensuring that nothing leavened is present.
Many Jewish families turn to alternatives such as matzah instead of hametz to adhere to dietary laws during the holiday.

Meaning

Hametz represents foods that are forbidden during the holiday of Passover, as they symbolize overindulgence and the rapid fermentation process which is in contrast to the unleavened bread (matzah) eaten during the festival.