Aga

Aga is a term that can refer to several related but distinct concepts. Historically, Aga is a title used in Turkic and Persian-speaking cultures, notably in the Ottoman Empire, where it signified a master, lord, or high-ranking official. The word derives from the Persian agha or Turkic agha. In Ottoman administration and military circles, agha titles were granted to provincial governors, commanders of corps, and household officers; the term later spread to other parts of the empire, including the Balkans, where it became a familiar designation for local leaders and for managers of caravansaries and estates.

In modern usage, Aga is also a given name or a surname in Turkey, Central Asia, and among diaspora communities. It is often transliterated as agha in some languages, and while it retains its historical resonance, it does not imply a specific rank today.

Aga may also refer to the Aga cooker, a brand of cast-iron kitchen ranges developed in the United Kingdom. Introduced in the early 20th century by AGA Rangemaster, these cookers are known for their heat-storing design and distinctive appearance, typically featuring multiple ovens and a warm, lasting heat that allows slow cooking and energy efficiency. The brand remains a recognizable feature in homes and showrooms around the world.

See also: Agha.