Hamas

American  

[hah-mahs] / hɑˈmɑs /

noun

1. a Palestinian Islamic militant political party engaged in grassroots organizing, armed resistance, and acts of terrorism against Israel: designated a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.

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Hamas British  

/ ˈhæmæs /

noun

1. an organization founded in 1987 with the aim of establishing an Islamic state in Palestine

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Hamas Cultural  

1. A radical Palestinian organization founded in 1987 in opposition to the moderate policies of the Palestine Liberation Organization. In a controversial move, Yasir Arafat has brought members of Hamas into positions of authority within the Palestinian Authority. Hamas sponsors terrorism directed at Israel, especially in the form of suicide bombers in crowded places.

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Etymology

Origin of Hamas

First recorded in 1985–90; vocalization of Arabic ḤMS, abbreviation of Ḥarakat al-Muqāwamah al-Islāmīyah “Islamic Resistance Movement,” from ḥarakat, form of ḥarakah “movement” + muqāwama “opposition, resistance” + Islāmīyah “Islamic” ( Islam ( def. ) ); coined as a pun on ḥamās “excitement, zeal”

Example Sentences

MSF didn’t say if the armed men in the hospitals belonged to Hamas and declined to answer any follow-up questions.

From The Wall Street Journal

Gaza's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authorities, says at least 601 people have been killed since the truce began.

From Barron's

The notion of the Board of Peace apparently arose during negotiations for the Gaza peace plan, intended to end the fighting between Israel and Hamas after the Oct.

From Salon

Military analysts said the rise in attacks is part of an Israeli effort to weaken Hamas while staying within the parameters of the cease-fire.

From The Wall Street Journal

The visit also comes amid talks between Israel and Hamas on implementing the next phase in their ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

From BBC