The spelling of the word "abideen" is often confused due to its nonstandard English origin. The correct phonetic transcription is əˈbiːdiːn. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound and the second syllable is stressed. The "b" is pronounced as a voiced bilabial stop, followed by a long "i" sound. The "d" is also voiced and pronounced as a dental stop. Finally, the "een" is pronounced with a long "e" sound followed by a silent "n."
The word "abideen" is an Arabic term (أبيدين) and its immediate etymology refers to those who follow or adhere to a particular religious or spiritual path. Specifically, "abideen" is used to refer to the Shia Muslims who follow the principles and teachings of the Shia branch of Islam. "Abideen" is derived from the root word "abada" (عبد) which means "to worship" or "to serve". In the context of Shia Islam, it signifies individuals who are devoted to the service and worship of Allah and the Ahl al-Bayt (the family of the Islamic prophet Muhammad).