# fatwa

/ˈfɑtwɑ/ (US) · /fˈætwɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fatwa
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

an official religious ruling or legal decision made by a religious leader. It usually explains how a specific law or rule should be applied to a situation.

For teachers: an official interpretation or ruling on Islamic law issued by a qualified religious scholar. Often carries significant legal or moral weight within the community.

## Examples

- The religious leader issued a fatwa on the new law.
- After the debate over the new dress code, the council requested a fatwa to clarify the religious requirements.
- While a fatwa is intended to provide guidance on complex ethical issues, its enforceability often depends on the political and social structures of the specific country in question.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.