📖 Reference

Islamic Glossary

Quick Answer

UK Prayer Times maintains a free glossary of 6 common Islamic and Arabic terms — from Adhan and Iqamah to Wudu, Taraweeh and Jummah. Each entry explains the meaning in plain English for Muslims and newcomers in the UK.

Simple explanations of 6 common Islamic and Arabic terms.

A

Adhan

The Islamic call to prayer, announced five times daily to summon Muslims to worship.

الأَذَان

I

Iqamah

The second, shorter call to prayer recited inside the mosque just before the congregation stands for prayer.

الإِقَامَة

J

Jummah

The congregational Friday prayer — the most important weekly prayer in Islam, replacing Dhuhr for men.

الجُمُعَة

S

Salah

The five obligatory daily prayers — the second pillar of Islam and the most regular act of worship for every Muslim.

الصَّلَاة

T

Taraweeh

Optional night prayers performed during Ramadan after Isha, in which the Qur'an is recited over the course of the month.

التَّرَاوِيح

W

Wudu

The Islamic ritual of minor purification (ablution) required before prayer, touching the Qur'an, and other acts of worship.

الوُضُوء