hijab
UK[hɪˈdʒɑːb]US[hɪˈdʒɑːb]
n
a head covering worn in public by some muslim women.
n
the religious code which governs the wearing of such clothing.
Etymology
the word 'hijab' entered english in the late 20th century, borrowed directly from the arabic 'ḥijāb', which means 'cover, veil, or screen'. in arabic, the root ḥ-j-b carries the core meaning of concealing, partitioning, or protecting. the concept is deeply rooted in islamic teachings, where it traditionally refers not only to a physical garment but more broadly to principles of modesty, privacy, and the separation between public and private spheres. the english usage has narrowed to primarily denote the headscarf itself, while still evoking its religious and cultural significance.
Analysis
this word is a direct loanword from arabic. it is not productively formed from smaller, identifiable morphemes within the english spelling system.
Examples
she decided to start wearing the hijab as an expression of her faith.
the debate focused on the right to wear the hijab in secular institutions.
the fabric of her hijab matched the color of her dress.