khalifa

/kəˈliːfə/
noun
  1. A Muslim ruler or leader, especially the chief civil and religious ruler of a Muslim state.
    • Historians study the role of the khalifa in the early Islamic empire.
    • The title of khalifa has been used by various rulers throughout history.
    • The khalifa was respected as both a political and spiritual leader.
  2. A title used by some leaders of Sufi orders or other Muslim communities.
    • She was appointed as a khalifa of the spiritual order.
    • The Sufi khalifa led the group in prayer and meditation.
    • The khalifa guided his followers with wisdom and patience.
What does "khalifa" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean