Imams

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A person who leads prayers in a mosque ; a respected religious leader or scholar in Islam who provides guidance
2. An individual who conducts ritual prayers within the Muslim community ; a religious figure offering spiritual and scholarly leadership
3. A leader who directs congregational worship ; an Islamic authority often responsible for teaching and community guidance

Etymology: "Imams" is the plural of "imam", a noun for a Muslim prayer leader. The singular comes from Arabic "ʔimām", meaning "leader", and English took it directly from that Arabic word. Its root, "ʔ-m-m", carries the sense of going before or leading, which is why the same word can denote a leader of prayer, a religious guide, or the figure who stands at the front of a congregation.

Synonyms: leaders, religious leaders