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shaikh

shaikh

1 9.1
A respected Muslim religious teacher and community leader
  • noun
  • /ʃeɪk/
  • Indian
translation icon : jeque
  • In their discussions about community issues, the local people often sought the advice of the shaikh, recognizing his leadership and respect.
  • tribal shaikhs

Examples

  • Shaikh Faisal al-Hwaidi, who was acting as the leading mediator, accepted the demands.

    Academic text (1990)
  • Lunch was served to the shaikh and his companions.

    Academic text (1990)
  • How can we let the shaikhs sit out there like this in the sun?

    Academic text (1990)
  • The shaikhs say, "There is your man, go to him and get your right from him."

    Academic text (1990)
  • When the meeting resumed, Shaikh Solaiman started to speak.

    Academic text (2014)
  • The local men present at the scene were quite stirred by Shaikh Ali's statement.

    Academic text (1990)
  • As this case illustrates, after the shaikhs arrive, the hosts eventually must offer them food.

    Academic text (1990)
  • Usually, the prominent tribal shaikhs request some local headmen to start preliminary inquiries into the possibility of starting mediation.

    Academic text (1990)
  • During the festival, the community gathered to hear the wisdom of the shaikh who is known for his deep knowledge of religious texts.

  • After prayers, the shaikh addressed the congregation, sharing insights about compassion and unity among the community.

Synonyms

sheikh
vsshaikh
68 7.0

A respected man who leads an Arab family, village, or tribe

is more religiously oriented, not only an elder or chief
sheik
vsshaikh
54 7.5

A respected older person who leads an Arab tribe or village

focuses more on religious scholarship or formal leadership
ayatollah
vsshaikh
5 9.8

A senior leader in Shia Islam who gives rules about Islamic law and often has political power

is more general and not limited to Shiite high rank or politics
Islamist
vsshaikh
  • Specialized
5 7.7

A scholar who studies Islam and its laws

is broader, also covering community leaders without scholarly training
mullah
vsshaikh
4 8.5

A Muslim religious leader who teaches Islam and leads prayers in a mosque

is more general, also including nonlegal community leaders
mufti
vsshaikh
  • Specialized
3 9.9

A Muslim scholar who gives official rulings about Islamic law

is broader, including scholars without formal legal authority
shaykh
vsshaikh
1 8.6

A respected Muslim religious leader who gives advice and teaches about faith

is broader, covering both scholars and general community leaders
tribal sheik
vsshaikh
1 8.5

A respected elder who leads a tribe or village

can also mean a religious scholar rather than only a tribal leader
tribal sheikh
vsshaikh
1 8.7

A person who leads an Arab family group or village and makes important community decisions

also covers respected religious scholars in communities
mukhtar
vsshaikh
1 9.9

A person elected to lead a village or small community

is typically chosen by respect or religious status rather than by election

Surface Forms

shaikh singular
shaikhs plural

Etymology

Shaikh comes from the Arabic word shaykh, which means 'old man' or 'elder' and was used for respected leaders and teachers. That's why a shaikh often means a religious scholar or community leader today.