### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dermátinos**, represented by `{{G1193}}`, means **made of hide**. It is defined as "leathern, of a skin" and appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. It is used to describe a specific article of clothing made from an animal's skin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word `{{G1193}}` is used exclusively to describe the attire of John the Baptist. In both Matthew and Mark, he is depicted wearing a girdle made from this material. [[Matthew 3:4]] states that John had a "**leathern** girdle" about his loins, and [[Mark 1:6]] similarly describes him with a "girdle **of a skin**" about his loins. This specific detail is consistently paired with a description of his garment of camel's hair and his diet of locusts and wild honey.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words appear in the same context as `{{G1193}}`, providing a fuller picture of John the Baptist's appearance:
* `{{G2223}}` **zṓnē** (a belt; by implication, a pocket:--girdle, purse): This is the specific item, a "girdle," which is described as being leathern in both [[Matthew 3:4]] and [[Mark 1:6]].
* `{{G2574}}` **kámēlos** (a "camel":--camel): The "leathern" girdle is worn with a garment made of **camel's** hair [[Matthew 3:4]].
* `{{G2359}}` **thríx** (hair:--hair): This word specifies that John's primary garment was made from camel's **hair** ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]).
* `{{G1742}}` **éndyma** (apparel (especially the outer robe):--clothing, garment, raiment): This term refers to John's general **raiment** made of camel's hair [[Matthew 3:4]].
* `{{G1746}}` **endýō** (to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively):--array, clothe (with), endue, have (put) on): This verb describes how John **was clothed** with these rustic items [[Mark 1:6]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G1193}}` to describe a **leathern** item contributes to the distinct portrayal of John the Baptist.
* **An Image of Austerity:** The girdle "of a skin," paired with a garment of camel's hair, establishes an image of a rugged and simple lifestyle. This is reinforced by the description of his diet of locusts and wild honey ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]).
* **Distinctive Apparel:** The specific mention of a **leathern** girdle is a key detail used to define John the Baptist's appearance. It is an element of the rustic clothing that sets him apart at the very start of his ministry as recorded in the gospels.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1193}}` is a highly specific adjective meaning **made of hide**. Its only scriptural application is to describe the "**leathern** girdle" or "girdle **of a skin**" worn by John the Baptist ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]). While rare, the word is significant as it works with other details—such as his garment of camel's hair—to create a memorable and defining image of his austere and set-apart life.
TRV