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Shia

noun
\ ˈshē-(ˌ)ä \

Definition of Shia 

1 : the Muslims of the branch of Islam comprising sects believing in Ali and the Imams as the only rightful successors of Muhammad and in the concealment and messianic return of the last recognized Imam — compare sunni

2 : shiite

3 : the branch of Islam formed by the Shia

First Known Use of Shia

1626, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for Shia

Arabic shīʽa followers, faction, sect

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Dictionary Entries near Shia

SHF

shg

Shi'i

Shia

shiatsu

shibah

Shiba Inu

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Time Traveler for Shia

The first known use of Shia was in 1626

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More Definitions for Shia

Shia

noun

English Language Learners Definition of Shia

: one of the two main branches of Islam

: a Muslim who is a member of the Shia branch of Islam

See the full definition for Shia in the English Language Learners Dictionary

More from Merriam-Webster on Shia

Britannica English: Translation of Shia for Arabic Speakers

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