Pronunciation: [mjˈuːzɪn] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "muezzin" is often confused due to its foreign origin. The word comes from Arabic, and its pronunciation is /muˈɛzɪn/. The "m" at the beginning is followed by a "u" sound as in "moon", then "e" as in "pet", "z" as in "zoo", and "ɪ" as in "sit". Finally, "n" is pronounced as in "not". The muezzin is a person who sings the call to prayer from a mosque's minaret, announcing the time for worship.
A muezzin, originating from the Arabic word "mu'adhdhin," is an individual who recites the call to prayer, known as the adhan, in Islam. Typically, a muezzin is appointed by the mosque to perform this duty, which involves announcing the fixed times for prayer throughout the day. The call to prayer is a fundamental practice in Islam, serving to invite Muslims to engage in their obligatory worship at specified hours.
Traditionally, the muezzin would ascend to the minaret (a tower attached to the mosque) to recite the adhan aloud, allowing the sound to reach a wide area and alert the community of the prayer time. The adhan itself holds a significant role as an expression of the unity of Muslims, as it brings together individuals for the collective act of worship.
The muezzin's role goes beyond simply reciting the adhan; they must possess a strong and melodious voice to ensure that the calls are clear and audible. Additionally, muezzins often receive training to perfect their intonation, ensuring that the adhan adheres to the specific rules and melodies set forth in the Islamic tradition.
In modern times, technology has facilitated the dissemination of the call to prayer through loudspeakers, complicating the role of the muezzin. Nevertheless, the position still carries cultural and religious significance, representing the constant reminder of prayer and the vital role of community in Islam.
In Mohammedan countries, a clerk or crier who proclaims from the minaret of a mosque the hour of prayer.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "muezzin" comes from the Arabic word "muʾaḏḏin" (مؤذن), which means "one who calls to prayer". The term is derived from the Arabic root "adhana" (أَذَانَ), which means "to proclaim" or "to announce". In Islamic tradition, a muezzin is a person who recites the call to prayer, known as the Adhan, from a mosque's minaret to summon Muslims for obligatory prayers. The word "muezzin" has been adopted in various languages around the world, but its origins lie in Arabic.
