from a root meaning "openness or boreness" (Gesenius), or (mearah) a "cave" (Grove). A town of Judah in the hills (Joshua 15:58-59); not far from Hebron.
Bibliography Information Fausset, Andrew Robert M.A., D.D., "Definition for 'Maarath' Fausset's Bible Dictionary". bible-history.com - Fausset's; 1878.