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noun

mullah

MUU-luh

Mullah (noun) means a Muslim religious scholar or cleric, especially one trained in Islamic law. Example: “The local mullah led prayers at the mosque.”

noun
1
A Muslim religious scholar or cleric, especially one trained in Islamic law.
"The local mullah led prayers at the mosque."
"He studied for years to become a mullah."

How to use mullah

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA Muslim cleric or religious teacher, roughly similar in role to a priest or rabbi in other faiths.

When to use it

In Western news media the word is sometimes used loosely or with negative connotations for conservative Islamic leaders — be aware of the context.

Word forms

mullahs plural

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Test yourself on “mullah” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The local _____ led prayers at the mosque.

Etymology

From Persian mullā, borrowed from Arabic mawlan, meaning something like "guardian" or "master."

Origin: Arabic

Mulla Mollah

Related words

Rhymes for mullah

See all rhymes for mullah →

Frequently asked questions

What does “mullah” mean?

The word “mullah” means a Muslim religious scholar or cleric, especially one trained in Islamic law. In plain terms, a Muslim cleric or religious teacher, roughly similar in role to a priest or rabbi in other faiths.

How do you pronounce “mullah”?

“Mullah” is pronounced MUU-luh (/ˈmʊ.lə/ in IPA).

How do you use “mullah” in a sentence?

Here is “mullah” used in a sentence: “The local mullah led prayers at the mosque.”

What part of speech is “mullah”?

“Mullah” is a noun.

Where does the word “mullah” come from?

The word “mullah” comes from Arabic. From Persian mullā, borrowed from Arabic mawlan, meaning something like "guardian" or "master.".

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