The word denotes those who adopt the Greek language, and possibly also Greek modes of life. The KJV does not use the word itself, but translates it “Grecians” (Acts 6: 1; Acts 9: 29, etc.). The Hellenists were Jews who had settled in Greek-speaking countries, and themselves used that language. It was for their use that the Greek translation of the O.T., the Septuagint, was made.