What does calif mean?
A calif is the title borne by the supreme leader of an Islamic state, particularly the rulers who claimed succession to the Prophet Muhammad after his death in 632 CE. It is a variant spelling of the more common English word 'caliph', deriving from the Arabic khalīfa, meaning 'successor' or 'deputy'. Califates such as the Umayyad, Abbasid, and Ottoman dynasties governed vast territories stretching from Spain to Central Asia, and figures like Harun al-Rashid became legendary through works such as the Arabian Nights. In modern English, 'calif' appears mainly in historical, literary, or translated contexts, while 'caliph' dominates contemporary journalism and scholarship. The word evokes both spiritual authority and imperial power, making it a useful term for readers of history, religion, and classical literature.
nounA calif is the title of the supreme religious and political leader of an Islamic state, especially as held by the successors of Muhammad — a variant spelling of 'caliph'.
- The sovereign head of an Islamic state, regarded as the political successor to Muhammad; a variant spelling of caliph.
"The calif ruled from Baghdad at the height of the Abbasid empire."
"Harun al-Rashid was the most celebrated calif of the Abbasid dynasty."
"Under the calif's patronage, scholars translated Greek philosophy into Arabic."
The plural follows the regular English pattern; 'caliphs' is more common when using the standard spelling.
"Several califs commissioned grand mosques during their reigns."
Before 'caliph' became the standard spelling, English writers reached for 'calif' — the form that gives us the Scheherazade-era tales where a disguised ruler wanders his own city by night.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of calif
'Calif' entered English in the early modern period, borrowed ultimately from the Arabic khalīfa ('successor'), via medieval Latin and French forms such as calipha and calife. It is simply an older variant of 'caliph', which has since become the standard English spelling. Related forms include 'khalifa' (a closer transliteration of the Arabic) and 'caliphate' or 'califate', denoting the realm or office of such a ruler.
Related word forms
How calif is actually used
'Calif' is now largely historical and literary; 'caliph' is the preferred spelling in contemporary usage. The word carries connotations of grandeur and authority from its association with the great medieval Islamic empires.
Easily confused with calif
'Caliph' is the standard modern English spelling of the same word, while 'calif' is a less common variant.
'Calif.' is the abbreviation for the U.S. state of California and has nothing to do with Islamic rulers.