The Arabic term for the intention made before takbir in the Sunni Eid prayer procedure is niyyah. It means “intention” and refers to the worshipper’s inward intention to perform the Eid prayer for God.
In the procedure described for Sunni Eid prayer, the worshipper makes niyyah before the imam says the opening takbir, known as takbir al-ihram. The prayer then proceeds through two rak'ahs with additional takbirs, followed by the khutbah.
Niyyah is broader than Eid prayer. Islamic prayer generally requires the worshipper to distinguish the intended act of worship from ordinary movements. Many scholars hold that the intention belongs in the heart and does not need to be spoken aloud, although some communities teach a quiet verbal formula as a practical aid.
The other options are movements or prayer elements: ruku is bowing, sujud is prostration, and tashahhud is a testimony recited while seated in prayer. None means the intention itself.