emir

/əˈmɪər/

/əˈmɪə/

Other forms: emirs

An emir is a ruler or commander, especially in Africa or Arabia.

Emir comes from an Arabic word for "commander." An emir is a chieftain or independent ruler who has power over a province or tribe. An emir might be a prince or just a military commander. You will only hear about emirs in places where the Arabic language has an influence.

Definitions of emir

1. noun

   an independent ruler or chieftain (especially in Africa or Arabia)
   synonyms: ameer, amir, emeer

   examples:

   Othman I

   the conqueror of Turkey who founded the Ottoman Empire and the Ottoman dynasty that ruled Turkey after the 13th century; conquered most of Asia Minor and assumed the title of emir in 1299 (1259-1326)

   type of:

   ruler, swayer

   a person who rules or commands