ihram

American  

[ee-rahm] / iˈrɑm /

noun

1. the dress worn by male Muslims on their pilgrimage to Mecca, consisting of two white cotton cloths, one worn round the waist, the other over the left shoulder.

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ihram British  

/ ɪˈrɑːm /

noun

1. the customary white robes worn by Muslim pilgrims to Mecca, symbolizing a sacred or consecrated state

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Etymology

Origin of ihram

First recorded in 1695–1705, ihram is from the Arabic word iḥrām literally, prohibition

Example Sentences

On the first day of the Hajj, male pilgrims were required to change their clothes for two white cloths and enter the state of Ihram.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2025

The Cairo airport was where scores of Hajj groups were becoming Muhrim, pilgrims, upon entering the state of Ihram, the assumption of a spiritual and physical state of consecration.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Entering the state of Ihram, we took off our clothes and put on two white towels.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Many, not yet changed into the Ihram garb, still wore their national dress.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Only officials were not wearing the Ihram garb, or the white skull caps, long, white, nightshirt-looking gown and the little slippers of the Mutawaf, those who guided each pilgrim party, and their helpers.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey