Pronunciation: [maɹˈana͡ʊz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Maranaos" is derived from the phonetics of the language spoken by the Maranao people of the Philippines. The IPA transcription of the word is /maranaos/, with the stress falling on the second syllable. The first syllable "ma" is pronounced as /mə/, the second syllable "ra" is pronounced as /rə/, and "naos" is pronounced as /næos/. The letter "s" at the end of the word is unvoiced, and pronounced as /s/.
Maranaos are an ethnic group in the southern part of the Philippines, particularly concentrated in the provinces of Lanao del Norte and Lanao del Sur. They are part of the larger Moro ethnic group and are considered one of the indigenous peoples of the Bangsamoro region.
The Maranaos have a distinct culture that is influenced by Islamic and Malay traditions. They are known for their rich and colorful heritage, which is reflected in their language, art, music, and dance. Traditional Maranao customs and practices are deeply rooted in their historical ties to the ancient Islamic Sultanate of Lanao.
The Maranaos are predominantly Muslim, and their faith plays a significant role in their daily lives. They adhere to Islamic teachings and practices, including observing the five pillars of Islam, such as praying five times a day and fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
The Maranaos are known for their skilled craftsmanship, particularly in metalworks, woodcarving, weaving, and embroidery. Their traditional houses, known as "torogans," are iconic structures that reflect their cultural identity and social status.
The Maranao community values harmony, kinship, and respect for elders. They have a strong sense of community and often practice a communal way of life. The extended family, known as "kaagad," plays a crucial role in their society, providing support, guidance, and protection for its members.
Despite challenges facing their ancestral homeland, such as conflict and displacement, the Maranaos continue to preserve their cultural heritage and strive for peace and prosperity in their communities.
The word "Maranao" or "Maranaos" refers to an ethnic group that predominantly resides in and around Lake Lanao in Mindanao, Philippines. The etymology of the term "Maranao" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated from the combination of two words: "mëranaw" and "raut" of the old Maranao language.
The word "mëranaw" can be traced back to the Maranao prefix "mërë" which means "people of", and the term "naw" which can be translated as "lake". Therefore, "mëranaw" loosely translates to "people of the lake" or "lake-related people".
The term "raut" is associated with the ancient Maranao epic "Darangen", which tells mythical and historical stories of the Maranao people.
