Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ayatollah
Noun
ˌā-yə-ˈtō-lə
Definition
A high-ranking title given to Shia Islamic clerics in Iran, who are experts in Islamic law and theology.
Examples
- The Ayatollah led the revolution that overthrew the Shah of Iran.
- Many Muslims look to the Ayatollah for guidance in spiritual and political matters.
Meaning
The term ‘ayatollah’ translates to ‘sign of God’ and is used to denote a senior religious leader within Shia Islam, particularly those who have reached an esteemed level of scholarship.
Synonyms
- Cleric
- Religious leader
- Islamic scholar
