noun
imam
ih-MAHM/ɪˈmɑːm/
A Muslim religious leader.
The imam leads the row of worshippers in prayer.
Etymology
The literal sense “one who precedes” presents leadership as going before others. In religious use, this names someone who leads communal prayer or holds a broader position of religious leadership.
In context
My name is Imam Omar, yes. I am faith-based community leader of Jamhiyatu Ansaru-Deen.
More examples
- Community members consulted the imam about the ceremony.
- The mosque welcomed a new imam.
- The interview explored the imam’s work with local families.
Forms
imam · imams
Similar words
- prayer leader
- Prayer leader describes one role of an imam; imam can also carry broader religious authority.