noun
caliph
KAY-lif/ˈkeɪlɪf/
A Muslim ruler regarded as a successor to Muhammad's leadership.
The chronicle describes the caliph governing from his capital.
Etymology
Arabic khalifa means “successor”: the title identifies its bearer as succeeding Muhammad in leadership of the Muslim community and defense of the faith.
In context
abu bakr was the first caliph which is the first leader of the muslim people directly following muhammad
More examples
- Envoys brought gifts to the caliph's court.
- The historian compared the policies of successive caliphs.
- The caliph claimed leadership of the Muslim community.
Forms
caliph · caliphs
caliphate noun — The rule or territory of a caliph.
Similar words
- sultan
- A Muslim sovereign title that does not itself claim succession to Muhammad's leadership.