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Definition of haram

haram

/hɑːˈrɑːm/
ha · ram

Plural:harams
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haram Lexical Profile

haram Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Forbidden or proscribed by Islamic law.

Example

"In accordance with his religious beliefs, he avoids eating pork and other foods considered haram."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

Anything that is forbidden or proscribed by Islamic law.

Example

"Islamic scholars have written extensively on the distinction between halal and haram in financial transactions."


2

A sacred, inviolable place or sanctuary in the Islamic world, such as the precincts of the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

Example

"Millions of pilgrims gather peacefully within the boundaries of the sacred haram each year."

Synonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

In Islamic jurisprudence, 'haram' is the direct opposite of 'halal' (permissible) and should not be confused with 'harem', a cognate word referring to the separate women's quarters in a traditional Muslim household.

• Rhymes for haram

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Arabic 'ḥarām' (forbidden, taboo, or sacred), derived from the triliteral root ḥ-r-m meaning to forbid or exclude, which also gives English the word 'harem'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Haram. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/haram
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