Hejabs

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. Head coverings traditionally worn by some Muslim women to maintain modesty and privacy in public or in the presence of men; often comprising various styles and fabrics reflecting cultural or religious practices; garments symbolizing identity and faith
  2. Garments used predominantly by women in Islamic cultures to cover the hair, neck, and sometimes shoulders as an expression of religious observance and personal dignity; these coverings vary widely across different regions and communities
  3. Clothing items designed to cover the head and neck, worn by certain women to fulfill spiritual and cultural customs; these pieces of attire serve both protective and symbolical roles within diverse Muslim societies

Etymology: The term in question is a plural form of a word referring to a type of head covering traditionally worn by many Muslim women. This covering, which modestly drapes the hair and neck while leaving the face clear, has its roots in Arabic. The singular form derives from the Arabic "ḥijāb," which means "cover," "veil," or "screen." Its earliest uses within English appeared in the 20th century as Western observers sought to describe Islamic dress, especially in contexts of cultural and religious discussion. The original Arabic word comes from the root "ḥ-j-b," a Semitic root that conveys the idea of hiding or concealing. In Islamic practice, this garment symbolizes modesty and privacy. The word was adopted into English largely through cultural and religious discourse, where it took on specific connotations about identity, faith, and sometimes political statements. While the Arabic form is singular, the English plural often adds an "s" to denote multiple pieces or types, adapting the word to English pluralization norms. Over time, this term has become more widely recognized globally, reflecting both the garment itself and the diverse meanings it carries in different societies. The plural form simply indicates more than one such garment without changing the fundamental concept tied to modesty and cultural tradition.

Synonyms: headscarves, veils, scarves