What does Adonai (Lord) mean?
Quick answer
Adonai is a Hebrew name for God meaning "Lord" or "Master" — used to address God reverently. It carries the sense of supreme authority and rightful ownership. In OT reading, Jews substitute Adonai for the unspoken YHWH.
Adonai is plural form; the singular Adon means "master" and is sometimes used of human masters.
When the OT says "the LORD" in small caps, the underlying Hebrew is usually YHWH. When it says "Lord" in regular case, it’s often Adonai.
To call God Adonai is to acknowledge his rule over our lives — to call him Master is to bow.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.