hijab

[hi-jahb, -jab]

noun

1. a traditional scarf worn by Muslim women to cover the hair and neck and sometimes the face.

2. the traditional dress code of Muslim women, calling for the covering of the entire body except the face, hands, and feet.

   to observe the hijab.

hijab

/ hɪˈdʒæb, hɛˈdʒɑːb /

noun

1. a covering for the head and face, worn by Muslim women

Word History and Origins

Origin of hijab¹

First recorded in 1885–90; from Arabic ḥijāb “veil, cover, curtain,” from ḥajaba “to cover”

Word History and Origins

Origin of hijab¹

from Arabic, literally: curtain

Example Sentences

The original law prevents judges, police officers, teachers and public servants from wearing symbols such as the kippah, turban, or hijab while at work.

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She joined her local boxing gym, but at the time national and international rules did not permit hijabs in competition.

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Under rules imposed after the 1979 Islamic revolution, all women in Iran must cover their hair in public with a hijab, or headscarf, and wear modest, loose-fitting clothing.

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In the last months of Sara's life the the hijab hid the bruising and injuries to her face and head.

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It also did not consult the school, which had noticed Sara change from being bubbly to "quiet and coy" – pulling her hijab down over her face.

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