Etymology Map
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Imam

2 stages from Arabic to English.

Today it means a Muslim leader, especially one who leads prayers in a mosque
1
Stage 1 of 2
imam
Arabic · medieval
"a leader, especially in prayer"
literally leader, one who leads communal prayers in Islam
2
Stage 2 of 2
imam
English · 1600s
"a Muslim worship leader"
adopted directly as the title for a Muslim worship leader
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