# synagogue

/ˈsɪnəˌɡɔɡ/ (US) · /sˈɪnɐɡˌɒɡ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. a building for worship

noun · CEFR B2

a building where Jewish people meet for religious services and prayer.

For teachers: a building or place of meeting for Jewish worship and religious instruction.

- The local synagogue is a beautiful old building in the center of the city.
- The historic synagogue features intricate stained glass and serves as a focal point for the neighborhood's Jewish community.

Usage: Often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to a specific local institution.

### 2. a congregation

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a group of Jewish people who worship together.

For teachers: a Jewish congregation or community organized for the purpose of religious worship.

- The synagogue voted to hire a new rabbi last month.
- The entire synagogue gathered to celebrate the festival, demonstrating the strength of their communal bonds.

Teaching tip: In this sense, the word refers to the people rather than the bricks and mortar of the building.

## Examples

- The local synagogue holds services every Friday evening.
- Members of the community gathered at the synagogue to celebrate the holiday and share a traditional meal.
- The historic synagogue features intricate stained glass and traditional architecture that reflect the long history of the local Jewish congregation.

---

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.