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Shia

noun
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\ ˈshē-(ˌ)ä How to pronounce Shia (audio) \

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

Shi'i

Shia

shiatsu

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Cite this Entry

“Shia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Shia. Accessed 26 Jun. 2022.

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Britannica English: Translation of Shia for Arabic Speakers

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