imam

American  

[ih-mahm] / ɪˈmɑm /

Also imaum

noun

Islam.

1. the officiating priest of a mosque.

2. the title for a Muslim religious leader or chief.

3. one of a succession of seven or twelve religious leaders, believed to be divinely inspired, of the Shiʿites.

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imam British  

/ ɪˈmɑːm, ɪˈmɑːm, ɪˈmɔːm /

noun

1. a leader of congregational prayer in a mosque

2. a caliph, as leader of a Muslim community

3. an honorific title applied to eminent doctors of Islam, such as the founders of the orthodox schools

4. any of a succession of either seven or twelve religious leaders of the Shiites, regarded by their followers as divinely inspired

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Other Word Forms

• imamship noun

Etymology

Origin of imam

First recorded in 1605–15, imam is from the Arabic word imām leader, guide

Explanation

An imam is a Muslim religious leader. If you’re curious about a mosque, go talk to the imam, the person who leads the prayers. For a Sunni Muslim, the imam is a religious leader who provides community service and sometimes counseling. To a Shi'a Muslim, an imam is even more important—he is one of the central religious figures. Shi'a believe that God has chosen the imam to be a "perfect example" to everyone else and that an imam is free from sin. The literal meaning of imam in Arabic is "one who proceeds," from amma, "to go before."

Example Sentences

After 9/11, Enchassi felt a calling to become an imam.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

"Life became very difficult," says Said Mohamud Ibrahim, the local imam, sitting on the floor of his mosque.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

Khamenei was appointed to several posts: first as deputy defense minister, then imam for Tehran’s Friday prayers and, crucially, a supervisor for the Revolutionary Guard.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 28, 2026

With Ramadan so close, the imam emphasised brotherhood, charity and togetherness.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

He’s kept his promise to the imam and, after he was caught skipping Sunday school, has been taking his participation in the competition more seriously.

From "Amina's Voice" by Hena Khan