mullah

[ muhl-uh, mool-uh, moo-luh ]

noun

1. (in Islamic countries) a title of respect for a person who is learned in, teaches, or expounds the sacred law.
2. (in Turkey) a provincial judge.

mullah

/ ˈmʌlə; ˈmʊlə; ˈmɒlə /

noun

1. (formerly) a Muslim scholar, teacher, or religious leader: also used as a title of respect

Word History and Origins

Origin of mullah¹

1605–15; < Persian or Urdu mullā < Arabic mawlā; maulvi

Word History and Origins

Origin of mullah¹

C17: from Turkish molla, Persian and Hindi mulla, from Arabic mawlā master

Example Sentences

In Afghanistan, at least 70 people have been killed in flash floods and other weather-related incidents, while more than 2,600 homes have been destroyed or damaged, according to Mullah Janan Sayeq, a spokesman for the Ministry of Disaster Management.

From New York Times

The statement said Monday’s death sentence was carried out following approval by three of the country’s highest courts and the Taliban supreme leader, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada.

From Seattle Times

“I received great support from Mullah Hibatullah, for which I am grateful. We have to move forward now by putting an end to old resentments.”

From Seattle Times

The group’s spokesman, Mullah Muhammad Qasim, said on the Telegram messaging app that the assault had begun with a suicide attack and that other militants had then stormed the compound.

From New York Times

Mullah Hassan Akhund, prime minister in Afghanistan's Taliban-led administration, also expressed reservations.

From Reuters