emir

eh-MEER/eˈmiɾ/

“emir” means “emir” in Spanish (a title for a ruler or prince in certain Islamic countries).

emir

Also: ruler, commander

NounmB1formal

A noble ruler in traditional royal robes and a turban, standing in front of a majestic palace archway.

📝 In Action

El emir vive en un palacio muy grande.

The emir lives in a very large palace.

El emir firmó un nuevo tratado de paz.

The emir signed a new peace treaty.

La guardia real escoltó al emir hasta la frontera.

The royal guard escorted the emir to the border.

Word Connections

Synonyms

soberano (sovereign)
gobernante (ruler)
príncipe (prince)

Antonyms

súbdito (subject (someone ruled by a leader))

Common Collocations

el emir de Catar – the Emir of Qatar
título de emir – title of emir

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "emir" in Spanish:

commander→emir→ruler→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: emir

Question 1 of 3

How do you say 'the emirs' (plural) in Spanish?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼

emirato(emirate (the land ruled by an emir)) — Noun

emira(emira (female version of emir)) — Noun

🎵 Rhymes▼

venir dormir sentir

📚 Etymology▼

From the Arabic word 'amīr', which means 'commander' or 'prince'. It entered Spanish during the centuries of Arabic influence in the Iberian Peninsula.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: emirFrench: émirPortuguese: emir

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'emir' the same as a 'sheikh'?

Not exactly. While both are titles of respect in Arabic-speaking cultures, an 'emir' is specifically a high-ranking ruler or prince, while 'sheikh' can be a more general title for an elder, a religious leader, or a tribal leader.

Is the 'h' in 'emir' silent?

There is no 'h' in the Spanish spelling of 'emir'. It is spelled exactly as it sounds: e-mir.

Is this word common in Spain?

It is not used for local leaders in Spain today, but it is frequently seen in Spanish news when discussing countries like Qatar or the United Arab Emirates.