# sarkar

/ˈsɑɹˌkɑɹ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sarkar
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a word used in the past to describe a government or a ruler. It is an old word that people used in South Asia to talk about the state.

For teachers: a term of South Asian origin used historically to refer to a government, state, or sovereign authority. Often used in the context of colonial administration or traditional political structures.

## Examples

- The local sarkar controlled the trade in the region.
- During the colonial era, the sarkar was responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining order in the villages.
- The transition from a feudal sarkar to a modern democratic state was marked by significant social and economic upheaval across the subcontinent.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.