Muharram
Americannoun
noun
Usage
What is Muharram? Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It’s also spelled Moharram. It is one of the months of the Islamic calendar that Muslims consider sacred. The first day of Muharram is the first day of the Islamic New Year. The tenth day of Muharram is Ashura, which is an important day for both Sunni and Shiʿite Muslims.
Etymology
Origin of Muharram
First recorded in 1605–15; from Arabic muḥarram “forbidden,” from ḥarama “to prohibit, deny”; see also harem ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The procession coincided with the annual commemoration of Imam Hussein, the mourning month of Muharram, the holiest period of the year in Shia Islam.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026
The rituals culminate on the 10th day of the month Muharram, which this year falls on June 26.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 22, 2026
The debate unfolded against the backdrop of Muharram, the sacred month of mourning observed by Shia Muslims.
From Barron's ● Jun. 21, 2026
It continues to serve food to thousands during the holy months of Ramadan and Muharram, continuing a practice of community service.
From BBC ● Mar. 28, 2026
They also paint the bodies of the men who pretend to be tigers at the Muharram festival, for which they charge a rupee.
From The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India Volume II by R. V. (Robert Vane) Russell
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