E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Im’aum (2 syl.) or Imam.
One of the Ule’ma or priestly body of the Mahometans. He recites the prayers and leads the devotions of the congregation. Im’aums wear a high turban. The sultan as “head of the Moslems” is an Imaum. The word means teacher or guide.
