azan

American  

[ah-zahn] / ɑˈzɑn /

noun

1. (in Islamic countries) the call to prayer proclaimed five times a day by the muezzin.

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azan British  

/ ɑːˈzɑːn /

noun

1. Islam the call to prayer five times a day, usually by a muezzin from a minaret

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Etymology

Origin of azan

First recorded in 1850–55, azan is from the Arabic word adhān invitation. See muezzin

Example Sentences

Muslims recite the azan — the call to prayer — in the ear of every newborn, but we leave it out of the final prayer for the deceased.

From New York Times • Dec. 19, 2020

For Muslims feeling isolated at home, the sound of the azan will offer connection, says Imam Sharif Mohamed.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2020

Throughout Ramadan, the azan, or adhan - which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day - will be broadcast over loudspeakers for the first time at the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2020

Automobile drivers honked their horns, and mosques sounded the azan, the Muslim call to prayer.

From Time Magazine Archive

A few blocks away, from the Haji Yaghoub Mosque, the mul­lah bellowed azan, calling for the faithful to unroll their rugs and bow their heads west in prayer.

From "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini