fard

American  

[fahrd] / fɑrd /

noun

1. facial cosmetics.

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verb (used with object)

1. to apply cosmetics to (the face).

fard British  

/ fɑːd /

noun

1. archaic paint for the face, esp white paint

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Etymology

Origin of fard

1400–50; late Middle English < Middle French, Old French: noun derivative of farder to apply makeup, probably < Old Low Franconian *farwiđon to dye, color (compare Old High German farwjan, German färben )

Explanation

In Islam there are some obligatory prayers and actions that Muslims have to take part in, which are called fard. This isn't unique: Many religious practices have actions or prayers that you have to do as part of that religion. Fard is a word which comes from Arabic, but which has Persian influence. It refers to a religious duty, particularly one that comes from the Qur'an, and that duty can be a prayer or an action such as charity. It doesn't just refer to things a person has to do, but it also refers to things that the community has to do as a whole.

Example Sentences

"A little charlatanism is permitted even to genius," he wrote: "it is like fard on the cheeks of a naturally beautiful woman; an appetizer for the mind."

From Library of the World's Best Literature, Ancient and Modern — Volume 4 by Mabie, Hamilton Wright

This precipitate constitutes the “magistery of bismuth” or “subnitrate of bismuth” of pharmacy, and under the name of pearl white, blanc d’Espagne or blanc de fard has long been used as a cosmetic.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 4, Slice 1 "Bisharin" to "Bohea" by Various

And the fard on her face seemed like the old night-crust, the bad sleep.

From Aaron's Rod by Lawrence, D. H. (David Herbert)

Je nommerai sans fard les ineptes auteurs: Oui, je vais d�rouler aux yeux des amateurs: Des mauvais proc�d�s la d�plorable liste.

From A Bibliographical, Antiquarian and Picturesque Tour in France and Germany, Volume Two by Dibdin, Thomas Frognall

"Nay, but," said Macbriar, "ye handle this matter too tenderly; nor will my conscience permit me to fard or daub over the causes of divine wrath."

From Old Mortality, Volume 1. by Scott, Walter, Sir