AbayaFemme · Everyday words, explained.

Glossary

Understand the words, from A to Z.

165 terms covering clothing, fabrics, Sunni Muslim practice, family and everyday values. Search for a word or choose a topic.

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ClothingAbaya

A long, loose garment, worn open or closed depending on the design. The word describes a garment type, not a fabric: check the product page for length, sleeves and fastening.

Key distinction

Distinguish cut from fabric and check whether the abaya is open or closed.

ClothingHijab

In the shop, this word refers to a scarf worn on the head. Its shape, dimensions and fabric affect how it can be wrapped and how it drapes.

Key distinction

Available length matters for covering the neck and creating the drape you want.

ClothingKhimar

A covering worn over the head that extends over the shoulders and upper body. Length and cut vary: the name alone does not tell you how far it reaches.

Key distinction

Compare front and back lengths; they are not interchangeable.

ClothingJilbab

A loose, covering outfit available as a single garment or a set, depending on the design. Check which pieces are included: a Jilbab and a Khimar do not necessarily refer to the same garment.

Key distinction

Photographs may show accessories that are not included in the set.

ClothingUnderscarf

A cap or band worn beneath a Hijab to hold the hair in place and help keep the scarf secure. Its shape and fabric affect the fit.

Key distinction

A comfortable fit should not require excessive tightening.

ClothingPrayer dress

A dress designed to be worn for prayer. An integrated head covering, sleeves and length depend on the design: check the outfit description.

Key distinction

Check included pieces and coverage during movement, not only while standing.

ClothingKimono abaya

In the catalogue, a kimono-style Abaya is a loose garment that can be layered over clothing. Check whether it is open, closed or supplied with a belt.

Key distinction

The word “kimono” does not guarantee a fastening or an inner dress.

ClothingTunic

A top longer than a standard top, worn with trousers or a skirt. Its actual length and any side slits tell you more about coverage than the name does.

Key distinction

Compare its length with your height and the position of any slits.

FabricsChiffon

A light, fine fabric that is often sheer. This is called mousseline in our French catalogue and gasa in Spanish. The name does not identify the fibre: check the composition and layer it if needed.

Key distinction

Polyester composition and chiffon construction can describe the same fabric.

FabricsJersey

A knitted fabric rather than a woven one. Jersey describes textile construction, not a fibre: composition, thickness and stretch vary between items.

Key distinction

Jersey can be made from cotton, viscose or synthetic fibres.

Reference · CottonWorks — Jersey

FabricsSatin

A fabric whose weave gives it a smooth, shiny face. Satin does not mean silk: it can be made from different fibres. Check the composition and care instructions.

Key distinction

The face and reverse may look different: check the finish you want.

Reference · CottonWorks — Satin

FabricsMedina silk

A trade name used for some hijab fabrics, not a guarantee of natural silk. Rely on the composition stated on the product page and label, not the name alone.

Key distinction

Never treat this name as evidence of undeclared natural silk content.

FabricsViscose

A fibre made from processed cellulose. It can be used in different fabrics: the word alone does not tell you a garment’s thickness or opacity.

Key distinction

Follow care instructions for the finished garment, especially washing and drying.

Reference · Textile Exchange — Viscose

TexturesCrinkle

A deliberately uneven surface texture. The term describes texture, not fibre composition. Check the care label before ironing to preserve the intended effect.

Key distinction

Do not automatically try to smooth an intentionally crinkled texture.

TexturesPleated

Fabric arranged in a series of regular folds. Pleating can change volume and drape; care depends on the material and process used.

Key distinction

Avoid flattening pleats with an iron unless the label allows it.

TexturesOpaque

Describes fabric that does not readily reveal what is underneath. Lighting, colour and stretching can affect the result; check the information for the specific design.

Key distinction

A light colour or stretched fabric may make transparency more noticeable.

TexturesLining

A layer of fabric inside a garment. It can improve comfort and reduce transparency, but does not by itself guarantee opacity in every situation.

Key distinction

Check whether the lining covers the whole garment or only some areas.

Fit and sizingOne size

An item offered in a single commercial size. This does not mean it fits every body shape: compare the stated measurements with a garment that fits you well.

Key distinction

Check chest, hips and length; height alone is not enough.

ClothingTurban

A piece or scarf arranged around the head, tied or pre-shaped depending on the design. Its construction may leave the neck uncovered: a turban does not automatically provide the same coverage as a draped hijab.

Key distinction

Check the head circumference, fit and coverage you want before choosing.

ClothingShawl

A large piece of fabric that can be draped over the head or shoulders. The name describes a format and use, without specifying a fibre, thickness or particular finish.

Key distinction

Compare width and length: two shawls can create very different amounts of volume.

ClothingPashmina

A name used for shawls and scarves. In a commercial or collection name, it is not enough to establish a cashmere composition. Only the stated composition identifies the fibres used in the product.

Key distinction

Do not infer cashmere content or a geographical origin from the name alone.

ClothingTwo-piece set

An outfit comprising two coordinated items, such as a tunic and trousers, or an abaya and khimar. The number of pieces does not establish what is included or whether the sizes can be chosen separately.

Key distinction

Read the set contents and the measurements for each item.

ClothingOpen abaya

An abaya with a front that can open, worn as a layer according to its fastening and cut. A belt or buttons may change its drape without making it a fully closed dress.

Key distinction

Check the fastening and whether an inner dress or belt is included.

ClothingButterfly abaya

A loose cut with generous fabric around the arms and torso, suggesting wings when you move. This silhouette does not specify a standard length, fabric or universal size.

Key distinction

Compare measurements and wrist openings, especially if you like layering clothes.

FabricsCotton

A plant fibre obtained from the cotton plant. It can be woven or knitted and blended with other fibres. Cotton describes composition, rather than automatically indicating softness, thickness or stretch.

Key distinction

Check the cotton percentage and care label: not every cotton item can be washed in the same way.

FabricsLinen

A plant fibre obtained from flax, used in fabrics with varied textures. Linen fabrics may have irregularities and crease; their appearance also depends on the blend and weave.

Key distinction

Distinguish a linen composition from a commercial name that merely says “linen look”.

FabricsPolyester

A synthetic fibre used in many fabrics, from chiffon to knits. The name alone does not describe feel or opacity: construction, thickness and finishing affect the result.

Key distinction

Read the full composition, particularly when an item also uses a commercial fabric name.

FabricsElastane

An elastic fibre usually combined with other fibres to add stretch. Its percentage alone cannot predict a garment’s exact ease: construction and cut also matter.

Key distinction

A stretchy fabric still needs suitable measurements and adequate recovery after stretching.

FabricsAcrylic

A synthetic fibre often found in jumpers and knitwear. It can give a wool-like appearance without being wool. Thickness and blending affect volume, feel and care.

Key distinction

Do not confuse a knit’s appearance with its composition; follow the label instructions.

FabricsCrêpe

A family of fabrics with a slightly grainy or irregular surface. Crêpe can be made in different ways and from different fibres; it is not a fibre composition in itself.

Key distinction

Look separately for the fibre composition, opacity and drape information on the product page.

FabricsJazz

A commercial name used in the catalogue for certain textured, flowing fabrics. It is not a standardised fibre composition and does not guarantee a particular percentage of polyester or elastane.

Key distinction

When comparing two Jazz designs, check their composition, thickness and actual dimensions.

FabricsBi-stretch

A description for fabric that stretches in two directions. The amount of stretch and recovery vary by fabric; the term does not mean a garment fits every size.

Key distinction

Check the size range, cut and measurements without relying on excessive stretching.

FabricsLace

An openwork textile whose patterns are formed by a network of threads. It can be a whole fabric or a decorative detail. Open areas may require a lining or another layer.

Key distinction

Check where the lace sits and what lies underneath instead of assuming complete opacity.

FabricsSuede effect

A velvety finish or appearance resembling suede. On a textile, this description does not prove that animal leather is present. Composition and labelling distinguish the material from the surface effect.

Key distinction

Do not apply leather care products without checking the material and the manufacturer’s instructions.

FabricsKnit

Fabric constructed from interlocking loops of yarn. Its structure differs from woven fabric; it may be fine or thick, flexible or stable, depending on the yarn and stitch.

Key distinction

Knitwear may stretch under its own weight: check the drying instructions.

Reference · CottonWorks — Jersey

TexturesRibbed

An appearance with raised lines. In rib knit, alternating columns of stitches create the ribs; the term can also describe the appearance of other textile surfaces.

Key distinction

Check the fabric both relaxed and worn: stretching can emphasise spaces between the ribs.

TexturesEmbroidery

Decoration made with thread stitches on a textile backing. It differs from a simply printed pattern and may add texture or structure to parts of a garment.

Key distinction

Protect decorative threads from snagging and follow the washing and ironing label.

TexturesPrinted

A pattern or colour applied to fabric through printing. The term describes decoration, not fibre composition. Pattern placement may vary between items cut from the same fabric.

Key distinction

A pattern shown in a photograph does not guarantee identical placement on every item.

TexturesPlain

Fabric without an apparent printed pattern, usually shown in a dominant colour. A plain item may still be textured, mottled or slightly shiny: plain does not mean perfectly smooth.

Key distinction

When matching pieces, compare texture and finish too; screens can change colour perception.

TexturesDrape

How a fabric or garment hangs and forms folds under its own weight. Drape depends on construction, flexibility, weight and cut rather than on a single fibre.

Key distinction

Model photographs provide a guide, but height and measurements also affect the result.

TexturesBreathability

A textile’s ability to transmit air or water vapour, depending on what is measured. Feeling cool also depends on thickness, layering, humidity and fit.

Key distinction

Do not infer a measured performance from commercial adjectives such as “lightweight” or “flowing”.

Fit and sizingFabric weight per area

The mass of fabric relative to its area, commonly expressed in g/m². This differs from total garment weight: a large piece of fine fabric can weigh more than a small dense piece.

Key distinction

Compare like units; a weight in grams on a product page is not fabric weight per area.

TexturesStretch

A fabric’s ability to lengthen when pulled. It can come from the knit structure or elastic fibres. It does not guarantee perfect recovery or constant opacity.

Key distinction

Choose a comfortable size without relying on maximum stretch to provide the ease you need.

Fit and sizingFlared cut

A cut that widens towards the bottom of a garment. It allows movement and ease, but the amount varies: a slightly flared dress and a very full cut do not have the same volume.

Key distinction

Also check the chest, shoulders and length; a loose hem does not guarantee room everywhere.

Fit and sizingGarment measurements

Dimensions taken from the garment, distinct from body measurements. A flat width is not directly equivalent to a full circumference, and the measuring method should be specified.

Key distinction

Compare with a similar garment that fits you, laid flat and measured the same way.

Fit and sizingSize guide

A chart connecting commercial sizes to garment or body measurements. Equivalences vary between designs and manufacturers; a letter or number does not always represent the same dimensions.

Key distinction

Use the guide for the particular design and check whether it measures the body or garment.

CareCare label

Manufacturer instructions for washing, drying, ironing and permitted treatments. They apply to the finished garment, whose seams, dyes and decoration may restrict certain treatments.

Key distinction

The item’s label takes precedence over general advice for a fabric family.

Reference · GINETEX — Care symbols

Fit and sizingLayering

Combining several garments, such as an open abaya over a dress. It can adjust coverage and style, but also changes volume, warmth and freedom of movement.

Key distinction

Allow enough room at the shoulders and sleeves for the layers you intend to wear.

Fit and sizingZip

A fastening that joins two rows of teeth using a slider. Depending on its position and length, it makes dressing easier or opens part of a garment.

Key distinction

Check whether it opens completely and where it sits; not every zip serves the same purpose.

Fit and sizingHem

The finish at a garment edge, often made by folding and securing fabric. Its construction affects how the bottom hangs and may limit how much a garment can be lengthened.

Key distinction

Before alteration, check the available fabric allowance and compatibility with existing finishes.

Fit and sizingXL

A size code generally read as “extra large”. It is a commercial category rather than a universal measurement. Its meaning varies between designs and brands; XL does not automatically mean longer.

Key distinction

Check the design’s measurements rather than always converting XL into a fixed numerical size.

Fit and sizingGarment weight

The mass of an item, expressed in grams or kilograms. It depends on size, fabric, hardware and finishes. Parcel weight also includes packaging and possibly other items.

Key distinction

When comparing two items, check which size the weight refers to and whether packaging is included.

Fit and sizingStraight cut

A cut with relatively parallel lines rather than a pronounced widening towards the hem. It can be fitted or loose depending on the measurements; straight is not synonymous with tight.

Key distinction

Check room at the chest and hips, as well as freedom to walk.

Fit and sizingSlit

An intentional opening in a seam or part of a garment, for movement or style. Its height and position affect coverage, especially when walking or sitting.

Key distinction

Check side views and the description to decide whether another layer is needed.

ClothingNiqab

A face veil generally leaving the eyes visible, distinct from a hijab covering the hair and neck.

Key distinction

Sunni scholars differ on its status; do not present one position as unanimous.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Niqab

ClothingBurkini

Swimwear covering much of the body, with cuts and components varying by model.

Key distinction

Check wet opacity, fit during movement and the swimming venue’s rules.

ClothingKaftan

A long garment with forms varying by regional tradition; some versions are designed for celebrations.

Key distinction

The name guarantees neither a loose fit nor a particular fibre composition.

ClothingQamis

A long tunic or robe whose use and cut vary by region; the term often describes menswear.

Key distinction

Use the product description and measurements rather than the name alone.

AccessoriesHijab magnets

Small magnetic fasteners that hold fabric without piercing it.

Key distinction

Check grip on the chosen fabric thickness and keep the small parts away from children.

AccessoriesHijab pins

Accessories securing scarf folds by piercing or clipping the fabric, depending on the design.

Key distinction

A damaged point may snag fine fabric; handle carefully.

AccessoriesArm covers

Separate sleeves worn under clothing to provide additional arm coverage.

Key distinction

Check that they stay in place when raising the arms.

AccessoriesSocks

Textile items covering the feet and a varying portion of the legs.

Key distinction

A commercial thickness description alone cannot determine religious rules on wiping during ablution.

AccessoriesPrayer mat

A mat providing a defined surface for prayer and additional comfort.

Key distinction

A special mat is not essential when the surface meets the conditions for prayer.

AccessoriesMiswak

A tooth-cleaning stick, also called siwak, known in the prophetic tradition.

Key distinction

Follow appropriate dental-care guidance; the name does not guarantee product quality.

Reference · Sahih al-Bukhari 887 — Siwak

CareShrinkage

A reduction in textile dimensions after care or exposure to certain conditions.

Key distinction

Follow the label; fibre type alone cannot predict an exact percentage.

CarePilling

The formation of small fibre balls on a fabric surface, often caused by rubbing.

Key distinction

Reduce friction and use care methods compatible with the garment.

CareColourfastness

A dye’s resistance to factors such as washing, light or rubbing.

Key distinction

Good wash resistance does not guarantee equal resistance to every other factor.

CareHand wash

Manual washing specified for certain textiles or finishes.

Key distinction

Follow the label’s temperature and other limits; avoid forcefully wringing delicate garments.

Reference · GINETEX — Care symbols

CareFlat drying

Drying a garment horizontally when hanging could distort its shape.

Key distinction

Gently reshape it and follow the care label.

Reference · GINETEX — Care symbols

CareDry cleaning

A professional process using suitable solvents rather than ordinary water washing.

Key distinction

It is not automatically suitable for every garment; the care label specifies restrictions.

Reference · GINETEX — Care symbols

EthicsAdab

Good manners and appropriate conduct in relationships, learning and daily life.

Key distinction

Respect also appears in speech, listening and the way advice is offered.

EthicsHaya

Modesty and moral restraint in conduct, speech and self-presentation.

Key distinction

Haya also concerns men and is not limited to a garment.

EthicsTaqwa

Awareness of God that guides conduct and encourages avoiding wrongdoing.

Key distinction

It cannot be measured by a clothing brand, price or colour.

EthicsSabr

Patience, perseverance and self-control in hardship or sustained effort.

Key distinction

Patience does not mean giving up seeking help against violence or injustice.

EthicsShukr

Gratitude, particularly towards God, expressed through recognition and action.

Key distinction

Thanking others and caring for what one owns are everyday applications.

EthicsTawakkul

Trust in God while taking appropriate practical steps.

Key distinction

Trust does not remove the need to prepare, check facts or seek competent advice.

Reference · Quran 3:159 — Mercy, consultation and trust

EthicsRahmah

Mercy, compassion and kindness towards others.

Key distinction

Religious advice can be offered gently without humiliation.

Reference · Quran 3:159 — Mercy, consultation and trust

EthicsAmanah

An entrusted responsibility, whether material or moral, and the duty to honour it.

Key distinction

In commerce, this includes honest descriptions and keeping commitments.

Clothing‘Awrah

Parts of the body to be covered in a religious context, including prayer or the presence of certain people.

Key distinction

Boundaries and conditions vary by situation and school; this is not the name of an outfit.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Niqab

Beliefs and conceptsAllah

The Arabic name for God, used in the Quran and Muslim prayer.

Key distinction

The name does not refer to a separate deity belonging to one language.

Beliefs and conceptsIslam

A monotheistic religion whose foundational sources are the Quran and the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad.

Key distinction

Distinguish religious teachings from customs particular to a region.

Reference · Sahih Muslim 8a — Islam, iman, ihsan

Beliefs and conceptsSunni

A Muslim belonging to the tradition of Ahl al-Sunna wa-l-Jama‘a, grounded in the Quran and Sunnah.

Key distinction

Sunni Islam includes several legal schools whose positions do not always coincide.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsTawhid

Affirmation of the oneness of God, central to Muslim belief.

Key distinction

This is a term about faith, not a category of clothing.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsAqida

The foundational beliefs of faith, studied in Islamic theology.

Key distinction

A theological school and a school of jurisprudence are different classifications.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsIman

Faith, including belief in God, angels, revealed books, messengers, the Last Day and divine decree.

Key distinction

A person’s clothing alone cannot describe their faith.

Reference · Sahih Muslim 8a — Islam, iman, ihsan

Beliefs and conceptsIhsan

Excellence in worship and conduct, linked to awareness that God sees the person.

Key distinction

Its meaning extends beyond the outward performance of an act.

Reference · Sahih Muslim 8a — Islam, iman, ihsan

Beliefs and conceptsQuran

Islam’s sacred book, called Qur’an in Arabic, arranged into surahs and verses.

Key distinction

A translation conveys meaning in another language and is distinct from the Arabic text.

Beliefs and conceptsSurah

A division of the Quran, which contains 114 surahs of varying lengths.

Key distinction

References generally give the surah number followed by the verse number.

Beliefs and conceptsAyah

A verse of the Quran; the Arabic word can also mean a sign.

Key distinction

Keep both the surah and verse numbers when recording a reference.

Beliefs and conceptsHadith

A transmitted report about the words, actions or approvals of the Prophet Muhammad.

Key distinction

Check the reference and assessment; a quotation circulating online is not necessarily authenticated.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsSunnah

The prophetic tradition and example. In jurisprudence, sunnah can also describe a recommended act.

Key distinction

Read the context to distinguish the religious source from an act’s legal classification.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsSirah

Study of the life of the Prophet Muhammad within its historical setting.

Key distinction

A biographical account and an authenticated hadith are not interchangeable categories.

Beliefs and conceptsSahaba

The Prophet’s companions, including women; a female companion is a sahabiyya, plural sahabiyyat.

Key distinction

The lives of early Muslim women also belong to Islamic history and transmission.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsUmmah

The community of Muslim women and men across national and linguistic boundaries.

Key distinction

A religious community is not the same as a single culture.

Beliefs and conceptsMadhhab

A school of jurisprudence with methods for interpreting sources and practical rulings.

Key distinction

The four major Sunni schools are Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i and Hanbali.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsHanafi

The Sunni school of jurisprudence associated with Imam Abu Hanifa.

Key distinction

Its distinctions, such as between fard and wajib, are not shared by every school.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsMaliki

The Sunni school of jurisprudence associated with Imam Malik ibn Anas.

Key distinction

A legal school identifies a scholarly approach, not a nationality.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsShafi‘i

The Sunni school of jurisprudence associated with Imam Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi‘i.

Key distinction

Spellings such as Shafi‘i and Shafii refer to the same school.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsHanbali

The Sunni school of jurisprudence associated with Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal.

Key distinction

A position specific to this school should not be presented as a consensus of all schools.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsFiqh

Islamic jurisprudence: the human study and interpretation of practical rulings from religious sources.

Key distinction

Distinguish a source text, its interpretation and its application to a particular situation.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsFatwa

A religious opinion given by a qualified scholar in response to a question and its circumstances.

Key distinction

A fatwa is not automatically a court judgment or a universal answer.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsHalal

What is permissible under the relevant Islamic rulings; the term extends beyond food.

Key distinction

A commercial halal claim should be checked for what it actually guarantees.

Beliefs and conceptsHaram

What is prohibited in Islamic legal classification.

Key distinction

Personal disagreement or a clothing preference is not enough to establish a religious prohibition.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsFard

An obligatory act in Islamic legal terminology.

Key distinction

The Hanafi school makes a technical distinction between fard and wajib; other schools often use them synonymously.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsWajib

A term for an obligation whose precise technical meaning depends on the legal school.

Key distinction

See fard for the Hanafi distinction.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsMustahabb

A recommended act that is not obligatory; mandub is a related term in this classification.

Key distinction

A recommendation should not be confused with an obligation.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsMubah

A permissible act that, in itself, is classified as neither obligatory nor prohibited.

Key distinction

Intention and circumstances can matter when assessing a particular action.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsMakruh

An act described as disliked or discouraged in jurisprudence; its degree and implications depend on the classification used.

Key distinction

Do not automatically equate it with haram.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Beliefs and conceptsNiyyah

The intention accompanying an act and giving it direction in religious practice.

Key distinction

It is not simply the recitation of a formula.

Reference · Sahih al-Bukhari 1 — Intentions

PurificationTaharah

Purity and purification in religious practice, concerning ritual states and certain substances.

Key distinction

Ritual purity is distinct from hygiene and a person’s moral worth.

Reference · Quran 5:6 — Purification

PurificationWudu

Ritual ablution with water of specified body parts, performed before prayer when required.

Key distinction

It differs from ghusl; details and invalidating factors should be studied within the relevant school.

Reference · Quran 5:6 — Purification

PurificationGhusl

A full ritual washing required in specific circumstances defined by jurisprudence.

Key distinction

An ordinary shower is not automatically equivalent; intention and required conditions matter.

Reference · Quran 5:6 — Purification

PurificationTayammum

Substitute ritual purification using clean earth material when water cannot be used under the prescribed conditions.

Key distinction

It is not an unrestricted substitute for ablution simply for convenience.

Reference · Quran 5:6 — Purification

PurificationHayd

Menstruation as considered in ritual law, particularly in relation to prayer and fasting.

Key distinction

Legal criteria differ between schools; the term is not a medical diagnosis.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Non-menstrual bleeding

PurificationNifas

Postnatal bleeding as classified in ritual law.

Key distinction

Its religious limits and implications depend on the rules followed and do not replace postnatal care.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Non-menstrual bleeding

PurificationIstihadah

Bleeding classified outside hayd and nifas under ritual-law criteria.

Key distinction

This legal category does not identify the medical cause of bleeding.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Non-menstrual bleeding

PurificationNajasah

A substance considered ritually impure in jurisprudence, with specific rules for its removal.

Key distinction

The term concerns ritual classification, never a person’s dignity.

FamilyMahram

A person permanently ineligible for marriage because of specified kinship, breastfeeding or marital relationships.

Key distinction

It does not simply mean any relative or trusted friend.

Reference · Quran 4:23 — Marriage and kinship

FamilyNon-mahram

A person outside the category of permanently unmarriageable mahram relations.

Key distinction

A cousin is not automatically a mahram; emotional closeness does not determine the status.

Reference · Quran 4:23 — Marriage and kinship

FamilyNikah

The Islamic marriage contract, with conditions of validity and associated rights and duties.

Key distinction

Religious status does not guarantee civil recognition in every country.

Reference · Napthens — Islamic marriage and divorce terms (UK)

FamilyMahr

Property or money due from the husband to the wife as part of marriage, belonging to her.

Key distinction

It is not a dowry paid by the bride’s family to the husband.

Reference · Quran 4:4 — Mahr

FamilyWali

A person exercising guardianship or representation; the term has a specific legal meaning in marriage.

Key distinction

The role and conditions of involvement differ between schools and circumstances.

FamilyWalimah

A meal or reception held to celebrate a marriage.

Key distinction

Cultural reception customs are not all conditions of the marriage contract.

FamilyTalaq

A form of dissolution of marriage in Islamic law, generally initiated by the husband.

Key distinction

Its effects depend on facts and applicable rules; a definition cannot decide an individual case.

Reference · Napthens — Islamic marriage and divorce terms (UK)

FamilyKhul‘

Dissolution of marriage requested by the wife, generally involving compensation agreed or specified by the procedure.

Key distinction

Arrangements and rights vary; consult a competent authority and the applicable civil law.

Reference · Dar al-Ifta — Khul and divorce

Family‘Iddah

A prescribed waiting period after certain forms of marriage dissolution or the husband’s death.

Key distinction

Its duration depends on circumstances; one period does not apply to every woman.

Reference · Napthens — Islamic marriage and divorce terms (UK)

FamilyNafaqah

Material maintenance owed within certain family relationships, which can include food, housing and clothing.

Key distinction

Its scope and application depend on the relevant religious rules and civil framework.

Prayer and practiceShahadah

The testimony of faith affirming God’s oneness and Muhammad’s prophethood.

Key distinction

It is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Reference · Sahih Muslim 8a — Islam, iman, ihsan

Prayer and practiceSalah

Ritual prayer comprising prescribed words and movements, most notably the five daily prayers.

Key distinction

Salah differs from du‘a, personal supplication.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceRak‘ah

A unit of ritual prayer, including standing, bowing and prostrations according to a person’s ability.

Key distinction

The number of units depends on the prayer.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceQibla

The direction of the Kaaba in Makkah, faced during prayer.

Key distinction

The direction depends on location; it is not always east.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceAdhan

The call announcing the prayer time and inviting people to pray.

Key distinction

It differs from the iqamah, given as the prayer begins.

Prayer and practiceIqamah

The call marking the imminent start of congregational ritual prayer.

Key distinction

The adhan time and the congregation’s start time may differ.

Prayer and practiceFajr

The daily dawn prayer, before sunrise.

Key distinction

Use local prayer times and a locally recognised calculation method.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceDhuhr

The daily prayer whose time begins after the sun passes its zenith.

Key distinction

Its time is not necessarily noon on the clock.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceAsr

The daily afternoon prayer.

Key distinction

Its starting calculation varies, including by legal school; check the timetable being followed.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceMaghrib

The daily prayer whose time begins at sunset.

Key distinction

During Ramadan, sunset also marks the beginning of iftar.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceIsha

The daily night prayer after twilight has ended according to the criteria followed.

Key distinction

Calculation methods can differ, particularly at high latitudes.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Salah

Prayer and practiceJumu‘ah

The congregational Friday prayer, accompanied by a sermon called a khutbah.

Key distinction

Its conditions of obligation and participation need more detail than a glossary definition.

Prayer and practiceDu‘a

Supplication addressed to God to ask, give thanks or express a need.

Key distinction

Du‘a does not replace salah; the terms refer to distinct practices.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Prayer and practiceDhikr

Remembrance of God, including words of praise and glorification.

Key distinction

It describes a practice; a counter or prayer beads are only optional accessories.

Reference · G. F. Haddad — A Concise Sunni Glossary

Prayer and practiceTasbih

Glorification of God, notably through subhan Allah. The word can also refer to dhikr beads.

Key distinction

Distinguish the devotional practice from the counting accessory.

Prayer and practiceIstighfar

Seeking God’s forgiveness, often expressed with astaghfirullah.

Key distinction

The term describes seeking forgiveness, not a commercial formula or a promised outcome.

Prayer and practiceSalawat

Invocations of blessings upon the Prophet; in other contexts the Arabic word is also the plural of salah.

Key distinction

Context distinguishes blessings from ritual prayers.

Prayer and practiceIstikharah

Prayer and supplication asking God for guidance in a decision.

Key distinction

It does not necessarily involve a dream and accompanies reflection and consultation.

Reference · Sahih al-Bukhari 1166 — Istikhara

Prayer and practiceSawm

Ritual fasting, notably in Ramadan, observed from dawn to sunset under its prescribed conditions.

Key distinction

Exemptions and making up fasts depend on circumstances, not just a calendar.

Reference · Quran 2:183 — Fasting

Prayer and practiceRamadan

The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, associated with fasting, prayer and reading the Quran.

Key distinction

Its Gregorian dates change each year; follow the announcements of your community.

Prayer and practiceSuhur

The meal eaten before dawn in preparation for a day of fasting.

Key distinction

The meal ends by dawn, not sunrise.

Prayer and practiceIftar

Breaking the fast at sunset and the meal accompanying it.

Key distinction

The time depends on location and date.

Prayer and practiceTarawih

Additional night prayers performed during Ramadan.

Key distinction

Practices and unit counts can differ; tarawih is distinct from the obligatory Isha prayer.

Prayer and practiceZakat

Obligatory almsgiving on certain assets when its conditions are met, directed to specified recipients.

Key distinction

Calculation depends on the assets and applicable rules; one rate does not cover every situation.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Zakat hub

Prayer and practiceNisab

The asset threshold used for certain zakat obligations.

Key distinction

Its monetary equivalent changes; use a dated reference appropriate to the assets concerned.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Zakat hub

Prayer and practiceHawl

The lunar year used in calculating zakat for certain categories of wealth.

Key distinction

Not all zakatable assets follow the same holding-period condition.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Zakat hub

Prayer and practiceSadaqah

Voluntary charity or kindness, which can be material or take other forms.

Key distinction

Voluntary sadaqah is distinct from obligatory zakat.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Sadaqah

Prayer and practiceSadaqah jariyah

Charity whose benefit continues, such as a lasting facility serving others.

Key distinction

A campaign label is not enough; check how the donation is actually used.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Sadaqah

Prayer and practiceZakat al-fitr

Almsgiving associated with the end of Ramadan, distinct from zakat on wealth.

Key distinction

The amount, form and arrangements follow the guidance adopted locally.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — Zakat hub

Prayer and practiceEid al-Fitr

The festival marking the end of Ramadan at the beginning of Shawwal.

Key distinction

It is distinct from Eid al-Adha; check local announcements for the date.

Prayer and practiceEid al-Adha

The festival of sacrifice, observed in Dhu al-Hijjah during the Hajj period.

Key distinction

Festive clothing does not have one uniquely prescribed cut or colour.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceHajj

The pilgrimage to Makkah on specified dates in Dhu al-Hijjah, for those meeting its conditions.

Key distinction

Travel requirements and religious rules should be checked separately.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceUmrah

A pilgrimage to Makkah involving ihram, tawaf and sa‘i, distinct from Hajj.

Key distinction

It is not confined to Hajj dates, though access arrangements may change.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceIhram

The ritual state entered for Hajj or Umrah, with specific rules.

Key distinction

It is not merely a garment; women’s clothing differs from the two cloths worn by men.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceTawaf

The rite of circling the Kaaba in seven circuits.

Key distinction

It is a pilgrimage rite; learn its conditions through an appropriate guide.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceSa‘i

The ritual passage between Safa and Marwah during Hajj or Umrah.

Key distinction

A one-way journey counts as one passage, with seven passages in total.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceArafat

The plain where an essential stage of Hajj takes place on the day of ‘Arafah.

Key distinction

Distinguish the place, the calendar day and the pilgrimage as a whole.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?

Prayer and practiceQurbani

A common name for the Eid al-Adha sacrifice, also called udhiyah.

Key distinction

Its conditions and legal classification are not identical in every school.

Reference · Islamic Relief UK — What is Hajj?