A minaret is a tall, slender TOWER that is typically found attached to a mosque. It is usually used for the call to prayer and is often decorated with intricate designs. The term 'minaret' comes from the Arabic word 'manara, ' which means 'LIGHTHOUSE.' The SPIRE of a minaret is a tall, thin structure that rises from the top of the TOWER and is often decorated with geometric patterns. A TOWER is a tall structure that is usually built for defensive or observation purposes. Towers can also be used for communication, such as radio or television towers.