Dictionary Definition
sheikhdom n : the domain ruled by a sheik [syn:
sheikdom]
User Contributed Dictionary
English
Noun
sheikhdom (Plural: sheikhdoms)- alternative spelling of sheikdom
Extensive Definition
A sheikhdom (alternatively, sheikdom) (
[Mashyakhah]) is a geographical
area or a society
(usually tribal), that is
ruled by a sheikh
(Arabic: ). Sheikhdoms exist almost exclusively within Arab
countries, particularly in the Arabian
Peninsula.
The term is generally used descriptively for
political systems rather than as a noun (such as "Kingdom"), and
although some countries such as Kuwait are ruled by
a sheikh, they are not referred to as sheikdoms.