Shiʽism

noun

Shiʽ·​ism
variants or Shiism
plural -s
: the religious system or distinctive tenets of the Shiʽa

Word History

Etymology

shiʽa + -ism

First Known Use

circa 1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Shiʽism was circa 1883

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Shiʽism

Cite this Entry

“Shiʽism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Shi%CA%BDism. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!