The Arabic word for the dawn-to-sunset fast observed during Ramadan is sawm.
Sawm is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, adult Muslims who are physically able generally abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset. The fast also emphasizes self-discipline, prayer, generosity, and avoiding harmful or dishonest behavior.
The daily fast begins at dawn, commonly associated with the Fajr prayer time, and ends at sunset, when Muslims traditionally break the fast with iftar. People who are ill, traveling, pregnant, breastfeeding, elderly, or otherwise unable to fast may have exemptions or alternative arrangements under Islamic legal traditions.
Sawm is broader than simply skipping meals. Ramadan fasting is a religious act intended to strengthen awareness of God and compassion for people experiencing hardship. The other pillars include the declaration of faith, prayer, charitable giving, and pilgrimage.