Sometimes it can be confusing getting the right name to describe an Islamic piece of clothing. Although all these terms refer to various Islamic garments worn by Muslim women, each one has a specific characteristics:
1. **Hijab:** This is a general term for modest clothing in Islam, but commonly refers to a headscarf worn by Muslim women to cover their hair and neck. It can be paired with different styles of clothing.
2. **Khimar:** A khimar is a specific type of headscarf or veil that covers the head and extends down to the shoulders or beyond. It's often paired with a loose-fitting dress or tunic.
3. **Jilbab:** The jilbab is a loose-fitting outer garment that covers the entire body, often worn over regular clothing. It is more of a long coat or dress that provides additional coverage.
4. **Abaya:** Similar to the jilbab, the abaya is a loose, flowing outer garment worn by Muslim women to cover their regular clothing. It typically covers the entire body and is commonly worn in some Middle Eastern and Asian countries.
In summary, while hijab is a general term for modest dressing and often refers to the headscarf, khimar is a specific style of head covering. Jilbab and abaya are both outer garments that cover the body, with the jilbab being a more specific style of a long coat or dress. The choice of which to wear can vary based on personal preference, cultural traditions, and interpretations of Islamic modesty.