Rafida

() is polemical term referring to Shia Muslims. It derives from the Shiites rejection of the legitimacy of Abu Bakr (), Umar (), and Uthman () as caliphs; in favor of an Imamate beginning with Ali ibn Abi Talib (), the cousin and son-in-law of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

In particular, the term appears in Sunni polemics as a derogatory nickname for Twelvers, who constitute the majority of the Shia community. In turn, Twelvers have reappropriated this nickname favorably to signify their rejection of tyranny and their struggle against perceived Sunni oppression. Provided by Wikipedia