Babism

noun

Bab·​ism

ˈbäˌbizəm

plural -s

: the doctrine and practice of a 19th century Iranian sect that affirmed the progressiveness of revelation, held that no revelation was final, and forbade concubinage and polygamy, mendicancy, the use of intoxicating liquors and drugs, and dealing in slaves

Word History

Etymology

Bab, title of Ali Mohammed of Shiraz †1850 Persian religious leader, its founder + English -ism

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

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