# Sunni

/ˈsuni/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sunni
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. a follower

noun · CEFR B2

a person who follows the largest branch of Islam.

For teachers: a follower of the majority branch of Islam, which accepts the first four caliphs as rightful successors to Muhammad.

- The local community includes both Sunnis and Shias who live peacefully together.
- As a Sunni, he adheres to the traditions and practices established by the majority consensus of the early Muslim community.

Usage: Capitalized in all uses.

### 2. relating to the branch

adjective · CEFR B2

relating to the main branch of Islam and its traditions.

For teachers: pertaining to the branch of Islam that recognizes the Sunnah and the authority of the Sahabah.

- They visited a Sunni mosque during their trip to Istanbul.
- The scholar provided a detailed analysis of Sunni jurisprudence and its historical development across the Middle East.

Usage: Always capitalized; typically precedes the noun it modifies.

## Examples

- He is a Sunni and attends the local mosque.
- The majority of the population in Egypt is Sunni, following the largest tradition within the Islamic faith.
- Scholars often discuss the historical theological developments that distinguish Sunni thought from other branches, particularly regarding the early leadership of the Muslim community.

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