Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
marrano
Noun
/məˈrɑːnoʊ/
Definition
A term historically used to refer to Jews in Spain or Portugal who converted to Christianity, often under duress, but who secretly practiced Judaism.
Examples
- During the Inquisition, many marranos had to hide their true beliefs to survive.
- The marrano community often faced discrimination, even from other Christians.
Meaning
The word ‘marrano’ was used to describe those who, despite their outward conversion, maintained their Jewish identity and practices in secrecy due to persecution.
Synonyms
- Converso
- Crypto-Jew
- Jewish convert
