ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sheikh

n.
US //ˈʃik// UK //ʃˈeɪk// sheikh
  1. 1 a leader or ruler (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a title for a leader of an Arab tribe or a member of a royal family in some Middle Eastern countries.

    a title of respect for a male leader of an Arab tribe or family, or a high-ranking official in certain Gulf states.

    Example

    The local sheikh met with the visitors to discuss the new water project for the village.

    Example

    The sheikh exercised considerable influence over the regional council, balancing traditional tribal interests with the demands of modern urban development.
  2. 2 a religious scholar (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Religion

    a title for a man who is highly respected for his deep knowledge of Islam.

    an honorific used for a man respected for his piety or his mastery of Islamic theology and jurisprudence.

    Example

    Many students traveled across the country to hear the sheikh speak at the university.

    Example

    As a prominent sheikh, he was frequently consulted on complex matters of religious law and ethical conduct within the community.

Last updated June 20, 2026