Alawi
|A-la-wi|
C1
/ˈæl.ə.wi/
followers of Ali
Etymology
Etymology Information
'Alawi' originates from Arabic, specifically the word 'ʿAlawī', which refers to followers of Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.
Historical Evolution
The term 'ʿAlawī' was used in Arabic to denote followers of Ali and eventually became the modern English word 'Alawi'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to followers of Ali, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of a religious sect, primarily found in Syria, that is an offshoot of Shia Islam.
The Alawi community has a significant influence in Syrian politics.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/12 20:51