Ramadan
UK[ˌræm.əˈdæn]US[ˌræm.əˈdɑːn]
n
The ninth month of the Islamic year, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
n
The fast itself that is observed during this month.
Etymology
The word 'Ramadan' entered English in the late 16th century from Arabic 'ramaḍān', which is the name of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Arabic term itself is derived from the root 'r-m-ḍ', conveying the sense of 'scorching heat' or 'intense dryness'. This etymology is traditionally linked to the idea of the fast burning away sins, or it may refer to the fact that the month originally coincided with the hot summer season. As a loanword, its form and primary religious meaning have been preserved intact through its adoption into English and other languages.
Analysis
The word 'Ramadan' is a loanword from Arabic (رَمَضَان), taken as a whole unit into English. It is not productively segmented using English morphemes.
Examples
During Ramadan, families gather for the evening meal known as iftar.
She is observing Ramadan by fasting and engaging in increased prayer.
The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon.