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

I first made this recipe for a friend’s Iftar back in March.

From Salon • May 10, 2026

Back on the streets of Lakemba last week, Kheir was calmly coordinating the mass Iftar, liaising with caterers as they ran back and forth replenishing food such as falafel, fattoush, chicken and rice.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

The families then retreated to their tents for Iftar, with candles providing light for lack of electricity.

From Barron's • Feb. 22, 2026

Muslims walk to Al Aqsa Mosque carrying their Iftar meals.

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