Sheikh
Sheikh (noun) means Alternative spelling of sheik: a respected Arab leader, elder, or Islamic scholar. Example: “The sheikh addressed the crowd after Friday prayers.”
How to use Sheikh
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSame meaning as "sheik" — an Arab community leader, tribal elder, or Islamic religious figure.
"Sheikh" is generally the more common spelling internationally, especially in news coverage of the Gulf states.
Word forms
Sheikhs plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ addressed the crowd after Friday prayers.
Etymology
From Arabic شَيْخ (šayḵ, “elder”). Sense 4 (“a romantic lover”) is from the 1921 film The Sheik.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “Sheikh” mean?
The word “Sheikh” means alternative spelling of sheik: a respected Arab leader, elder, or Islamic scholar. In plain terms, same meaning as "sheik" — an Arab community leader, tribal elder, or Islamic religious figure.
How do you use “Sheikh” in a sentence?
Here is “Sheikh” used in a sentence: “The sheikh addressed the crowd after Friday prayers.”
What part of speech is “Sheikh”?
“Sheikh” is a noun.
Is “Sheikh” a common word?
“Sheikh” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "sheikh" and "sultan"?
A sheikh is a respected Arab leader, elder, or Islamic scholar, a title often tied to tribal, religious, or community standing. A sultan, by contrast, is a sovereign ruler with formal political authority over a state or dynasty. Not every sheikh holds political power, whereas a sultan typically does.
Is "sheikh" the same word as "sheik"?
Yes, "sheikh" is an alternative spelling of "sheik," and both refer to a respected Arab leader, elder, or Islamic scholar. The spellings are used interchangeably in English.
Can "sheikh" refer to a religious figure rather than a political leader?
Yes, "sheikh" can describe an Islamic scholar or respected religious elder, not only a tribal or political leader. The exact meaning depends on context, since the title spans community, religious, and leadership roles.
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