wɑxˈbɑːbi

Definitions

1. noun

A member of a reform movement within Sunni Islam, originating in the 18th century, that emphasizes a return to the original practices and teachings of Islam as recorded in the Quran and the Hadith, and is often associated with a strict and intolerant interpretation of Islamic law.

“The journalist was accused of being a wahhabi by his critics, who claimed he was promoting a radical and intolerant form of Islam.”

2. adjective

Relating to or characteristic of the Wahhabi movement or its adherents.

“The wahhabi regime was known for its strict enforcement of Islamic law and its opposition to Western influence.”

3. proper noun

A reference to the city of Wahhab, the birthplace of Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, the 18th-century founder of the Wahhabi movement.

“The historian traveled to Wahhab to research the history of the Wahhabi movement.”