Cain

noun

in the Bible : the brother and murderer of Abel

Word History

Etymology

Hebrew Qayin

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Cain was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near Cain

Cite this Entry

“Cain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Cain. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Biographical Definition

Cain

biographical name

James Mallahan 1892–1977 American novelist

More from Merriam-Webster on Cain

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!