Chalif
/ˈkælɪf/noun
A variant spelling of caliph, the political and religious successor to Muhammad as leader of the Muslim community.
Did you know?Chalif derives from Arabic khalīfa, the same title famously rendered in English as caliph; its authority was rooted in succession, not the claim to prophecy.
Etymological Timeline
7th Century
Arabic
khalīfa
“Successor, deputy, or representative; a title applied to the leaders of the Muslim community.”
7th Century
Arabic
khalīfat rasūl Allāh
“Successor of the Messenger of God, an early caliphal title.”
Medieval Period
Latin
calipha
“Caliph; a Latin rendering of the Arabic title.”
Medieval Period
Old French
calife / chalife
“Caliph; forms transmitted through medieval French usage.”
16th–17th Century
English
chalif
“A variant English spelling of caliph.”
Modern English
English
chalif
“An uncommon variant spelling of caliph, generally referring to a successor or Muslim ruler.”