Sheik: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ‘ณ
Add to dictionary

sheik

 

[ สƒeษชk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

Middle Eastern leader

A sheik is a title of respect in Arab cultures, often used for a leader or elder within a tribe or community. In Islamic contexts, it can refer to a learned scholar or religious leader as well. The term conveys authority and is often associated with wealth and power.

Synonyms

chief, elder, leader

Examples of usage

  • The sheik welcomed the guests to his palace.
  • As a sheik, he held significant influence in the region.
  • The sheik's wisdom was respected by all.
  • The sheik organized a grand feast for the celebration.

Translations

Translations of the word "sheik" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น xeque

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคถเฅ‡เค–

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Scheich

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ syekh

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัˆะตะนั…

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ szejk

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใ‚ทใ‚งใ‚คใ‚ฏ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท cheikh

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ jeque

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท ลŸeyh

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์…ฐ์ดํฌ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุดูŠุฎ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ลกejk

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ ลกejk

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้…‹้•ฟ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ลกejk

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ sheikh

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัˆะตะนั…

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒจแƒ”แƒ˜แƒฎแƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ลŸeyx

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ jeque

Etymology

The term 'sheik' (also spelled 'shaykh' or 'sheikh') originates from the Arabic word 'ุดูŠุฎ', which historically means 'elder' or 'old man.' It denotes respect and authority within the tribal and Islamic cultural contexts. As societies evolved, the term became associated with leadership roles among Arab tribes and families. In various Middle Eastern and North African cultures, a sheik may lead a tribe, serve as a religious leader, or be a respected elder whose advice is sought by community members. Over time, the role of sheik has adapted, sometimes including political power, wealth, and cultural influence. The Arabic root relates to wisdom and age, emphasizing the importance of experience and knowledge in leadership positions. The use of 'sheik' in Western contexts often reflects these attributes but may carry additional connotations based on the portrayal of Middle Eastern figures in popular culture.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,287 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.