DictionaryOttomanFormer Turkish empire
adjective

Ottoman

Relating to the former Turkish empire or its ruling dynasty.

The museum displays Ottoman weapons beside portraits of the sultans.

Etymology

The dynastic name derives from Osman, the dynasty’s founder. Ottoman identifies the ruling family and the empire governed by it.

More examples

  • She studies Ottoman trade routes across the Mediterranean.
  • The Ottoman dynasty ruled the empire for centuries.
  • This mosque is a fine example of Ottoman architecture.

Similar words

Turkish
Describes Turkey or its people, not specifically the former empire.