The word ‘An-Nahdah’ is an Arabic word derived from the verb Nahada (نَهَضََ ) which means Qaama (to stand) however it has begun to be used with an Istilaahi (terminological definition) meaning which indicates a specific reality. This meaning that has been provided in the modern time was not used by the Arabs previously. This is because its linguistic meaning according to what the Arabs laid down differs from this terminological meaning. Therefore the word should not return to its linguistic meaning without a Qareenah (indication/linkage) as its new terminological meaning has become widespread, dominant and it represents the meaning that comes straight to the mind when it is mentioned or heard by social scientists, the majority of educated people and even the general masses.

As for its linguistic meaning then the following was stated in the dictionary ‘Lisaan Al-‘Arab’:

Nahada: The departing/rising from a position/placement and standing from it.

Nahada, YanHadu, Nahdan, Nuhoodan i.e. Stood up. Intahada Al-Qawm (the people raised up) meaning: They stood up for battle.

An-Nahdah: The strength (energy) and power (Taaqah and Quwwah). A Naahid place means: Elevated (place).

It is therefore evident that the terminological meaning representing the subject of our study cannot be found within the linguistic meanings mentioned above.