minaret

What is another word for minaret? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A tall, slender tower of a mosque from which the muezzin calls Muslims to prayer.

We haven't recorded synonyms for minaret yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use minaret

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

climb the minaret the mosque's minaret a slender minaret the top of the minaret

It's a neutral, factual term used in architecture, travel writing and religious contexts alike.

Etymology

Minaret entered English in 1682 from French, which took it from Ottoman Turkish minare. That word in turn came from Arabic manara, meaning lighthouse or minaret, a term that shares its root with menorah.

Full origin of minaret →

Frequently asked questions

What is a minaret used for?

It is the tower from which the muezzin gives the call to prayer, so its height lets the sound carry across the surrounding area.

Is a minaret part of every mosque?

The word specifically describes this tall tower attached to or standing beside a mosque; not every small mosque has one, but it is a recognised feature of the building type.

Where does the word minaret come from?

It came into English via French and Ottoman Turkish from the Arabic word for lighthouse, manara.

Nearby words

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