Caliphate
/ˈkæl.ɪ.feɪt/noun
A state ruled by a caliph, especially in Islamic history.
Did you know?The Arabic title behind *caliphate* comes from the same root as *successor* in the sense of “one who comes after,” making power itself feel like a chain of replacement rather than divine birthright.
Etymological Timeline
Modern English
English
caliphate
“A state ruled by a caliph.”
17th Century
English
caliphate
“The office, rule, or domain of a caliph.”
Medieval Latin
Latin
caliphatus
“The office or dignity of a caliph.”
Arabic
Ar
khilāfa
“Succession; the office of a successor, especially the successor to Muhammad.”
Arabic
Ar
khalīfa
“Successor, deputy, or representative.”
Proto-Semitic
PS
*ḫalafa
“To succeed, come after, replace.”
Explore more surprising origins