# shiva

/ˈʃivə/ (US) · /ʃˈiːvɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shiva
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a seven-day period of deep sadness and memory in the Jewish faith after a close relative dies. During this time, family members stay at home and receive visitors who come to show support.

For teachers: a period of seven days of formal mourning in Judaism, observed after the funeral of a first-degree relative. Typically involves staying at home and abstaining from work or celebrations while receiving condolences.

## Examples

- The family is sitting shiva for their grandfather this week.
- Friends and neighbors brought food to the house while the family sat shiva for their late mother.
- The tradition of sitting shiva provides a structured environment for the bereaved to process their grief within the supportive embrace of their community.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the phrase 'to sit shiva'. Often capitalised in religious contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.