the first king of Israel (?1020–1000 bc). He led Israel successfully against the Philistines, but was in continual conflict with the high priest Samuel. He became afflicted with madness and died by his own hand; succeeded by David
2. New Testament
the name borne by Paul prior to his conversion (Acts 9: 1–30)
Saul in American English1
(sɔl)
noun
Bible
the first king of Israel: 1 Sam. 9
Word origin
< LL(Ec) Saul (for 2, Saulus) < Gr(Ec) Saoul (for 2, Saulos) < Heb shaul, lit., asked (i.e., of God) < shaal, to ask