iftar

American  

[if-tahr] / ˈɪf tɑr /

noun

1. (sometimes initial capital letter) the meal that Muslims eat after sunset during Ramadan to break the day’s fast.

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iftar British  

/ ˈɪftɑː /

noun

1. the meal eaten by Muslims to break their fast after sunset every day during Ramadan

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Etymology

Origin of iftar

First recorded in 1830–35, iftar is from the Arabic word ʾifṭār “the breaking of the fast”

Explanation

Iftar is the second of two meals that fasting Muslims eat each day during Ramadan. Iftar is eaten after sunset. Iftar is a meal eaten after sunset during the month of Ramadan. It's the meal that breaks the daily fast that Muslims observe during this month, and it is often a community affair. Traditional foods include dates — which are generally the very first thing to be eaten after a day of fasting — samosas, different kinds of rice dishes, and many other regional dishes.

Example Sentences

But the mayor drew the most outrage when he posted a photo to social media on Monday showing that he hosted Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil for an Iftar dinner at the mayoral residence.

From Salon • Mar. 12, 2026

"We prepare Iftar with whatever we can lay our hands on," the 37-year-old told AFP, referring to the fast-breaking meal.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Rumeysa Ozturk was detained on Tuesday outside Boston, as she was walking to an Iftar meal to celebrate Ramadan.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2025

Anas Abu Assab prepares bottles of fresh carrot juice, a staple for Iftar meals, in Jerusalem’s Old City.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2024

She plans to attend the Music City Iftar, an annual community event for Muslims and non-Muslims.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 10, 2024