Midianites means in the bible: An influential confederation among wandering Arab tribes that is often at odds with the Hebrews. These are mentioned in Gen. 37.28, 36 and Ex. 2:15; 3:1; 4:19; 18:1; Num. 22:4, 7; 25; 31; Judg. 6-8; Ps. 83:9, 11; Isa. 9:4; 10:26. Also see Jethro.
(in Bible Dictionary)