shaikh

Shaikh, also spelled Sheikh, Shaykh, or Shiekh, is a title derived from the Arabic word shaykh meaning "elder" or "leader." Historically, it denoted tribal chieftains and respected elders in Arab communities and was later extended to refer to learned Islamic scholars and teachers.

In Islamic usage, a shaykh can denote a religious scholar (ulama), an imam, or a Sufi master who leads a tariqa. In Sunni and Shia contexts, the title conveys respect for authority or knowledge, but the precise rank and social role vary by tradition, locality, and institution.

Regional variations are significant. In many parts of the Muslim world, Shaikh is used as a professional or honorific for religious functionaries or community leaders. In South Asia, Africa, and the diaspora, Shaikh is also a common surname or caste name; individuals with the name come from diverse religious backgrounds and do not share a single lineage.

Spelling variants include Sheikh, Shaikh, Shaykh, and Shiekh, with plural forms such as shaykhs or shuyukh. The term is widely used in modern media and everyday speech as both a title and a surname, reflecting its broad historical and social reach without implying a uniform identity.