emir
/eˈmiɾ/masculine
The Spanish word for 'Islamic prince or leader' is emir. If unsure, use emir. Wiktionary also lists amir.
Meaning: Islamic prince or leader (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| emir | /eˈmiɾ/ | masculine |
| amir | /aˈmiɾ/ | masculine, rare |
The term refers to an Islamic prince or leader.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of emir is emires.
How do you pronounce it?
/eˈmiɾ/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word emir comes from Ottoman Turkish, which in turn derived it from the Arabic word amir, meaning 'commander' or 'prince'.
- The Spanish word emir is a direct legacy of the Al-Andalus period, when the Emirate of Córdoba served as a powerful independent state in the Iberian Peninsula.
- Spanish writers often use emir in poetic contexts to evoke 'exoticism' or 'Orientalism', a trend that peaked during the 19th century Romantic movement.
Examples in context
- El emir gobierna el desierto.The emir rules the desert.
- Ese emir es muy joven.That emir is very young.
- El emir recibió muchos regalos.The emir received many gifts.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are discussing a history book.
- Alejandro¿Quién es el emir en esta historia?Who is the emir in this story?
- SofíaEs un líder muy poderoso.He is a very powerful leader.
- AlejandroEl emir vive en un palacio.The emir lives in a palace.
- SofíaSí, es un libro muy interesante.Yes, it is a very interesting book.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “emir” translations and entries emir, amir, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries emir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
