What was the Dwarven name for Moria in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium?

The Dwarven name for Moria in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium was Khazad-dûm. In the languages of Tolkien’s world, the name means “Dwarrowdelf,” referring to the vast underground realm and city beneath the Misty Mountains.

Khazad-dûm was founded by Durin the Deathless beneath the mountain Caradhras. The Dwarves became wealthy by mining mithril, a precious and exceptionally strong metal found in the depths. Their mining eventually awakened a Balrog, after which the Dwarves abandoned the city.

By the time of The Lord of the Rings, Moria is a dangerous, ruined place. The Fellowship enters through its western gates and discovers evidence of Balin’s failed attempt to recolonize it. Gandalf confronts the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm.

Moria is the Sindarin name used by many Elves and Men. It does not originally mean a Dwarven city; in Tolkien’s notes, the name has a history connected with “black chasm” or “black pit.”