Word of the Day

Eid

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Liz Potter
Written by Liz Potter

Definition

an important festival in the Muslim religion that is celebrated at the end of Ramadan



View the full definition in the Macmillan Dictionary.

Origin and usage

The noun Eid is a borrowing from Persian and Arabic. It was first used in English in the 17th century.

Examples

This weekend saw the celebration by Muslims around the world of Eid, the festival that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. For many millions in dozens of countries this Eid was different from any other as people took part in virtual mosque services and celebrated at home with only their immediate family. Eid‘s full name is Eid ul-Fitr, to differentiate it from another festival called Eid ul-Adha that takes place later in the year.

Quotations

“The Grand Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia was deserted during the annual Eid al-Fitr prayers due to coronavirus restrictions.”
(metro.co.uk)

“Muslims worldwide are celebrating one of their biggest holidays under the shadow of the coronavirus, with millions confined to their homes during what is usually a festive time of shopping and celebration.”
(birminghammail.co.uk)

“Muslim organisations and individuals are finding technological and virtual alternatives to keep Eid traditions alive, such as virtual sermons, social media celebrations and online concerts.”
(aljazeera.com)

Related words

iftar, Ramadan, eidi

Browse related words in the Macmillan Thesaurus.

About the author

Liz Potter

Liz Potter

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