city upon a hill en · NOUN
Etymology
From Matthew 5:14. Cited by English colonist John Winthrop in the 1630 sermon A Model of Christian Charity. In turn, Winthrop's sermon was co-opted by later figures as an example of American exceptionalism.
Meanings
- A morally exemplary settlement, destined by God for greater things. Most often used to refer to the United States, or more specifically the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| city on a hill | alternative | lexicographic |
wikipedia: John Winthrop · wikipedia: A Model of Christian Charity