Definition

The position or rule of a caliph, who is a leader in the Islamic community, often seen as a successor to the Prophet Muhammad.

Example

The caliphate was an important political and religious institution in Islamic history.

Conversation

I read an interesting article about the last caliphate and its history.

Oh really? I didn't know much about that era.

Yeah, it was fascinating how it impacted the region's culture.

For sure, history can be really enlightening like that!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Caliphate → The word is derived from "caliph" (from Arabic "khalīfah", meaning successor or representative) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a state or condition). The term "caliphate" refers to the state or condition of being a caliph, or the leadership of the Islamic community as a successor to the Prophet Muhammad.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'successor' ('khalīfah') leading a community, and the '-ate' indicating a state of being. This helps you remember that a caliphate is the state of leadership by a caliph.

Visually Confused Words