Mecca Meaning and Definition
Mecca
Pronunciation
/ˈmɛkə/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The holiest city in Islam, located in Saudi Arabia, and the direction of the Kaaba towards which Muslims face during prayer.
Examples
- Muslims make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
- The city of Mecca is considered the spiritual heart of Islam.
Synonyms
- Jerusalem
- Makkah
Etymology
The word “Mecca” is derived from the Arabic name “Makka”, which refers to the plain or valley surrounding the city.
Usage Notes
When referring to the city of Mecca, it is customary to avoid using the name due to its sensitive religious context. Instead, use terms like “the Holy City” or “the City of the Prophet”.
Cultural References
Mecca has been referenced in various forms of art, literature, and media, including in the works of famous authors like Leo Tolstoy and Franz Kafka.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Mecca” is often used metaphorically to describe a place of great importance or pilgrimage.
Related Words or Phrases
- Masjid al-Haram
- Kaaba
- Hajj
Collocations
Mecca is often collocated with: pilgrimage, mosque, prayer, Koran
Frequency of Use
Mecca is a relatively rare term in everyday language, but it is widely used in religious and academic contexts.
Common Misspellings
Mecca is sometimes misspelled as “Meca”, “Meccah”, or “McCa”