Sheikh (pronounced or ; , mostly pronounced ,
plural )—also
transliterated Sheik,
Shaik,
Shayk,
Shaykh,
Shaikh,
Cheikh, and
Shekh— is an
honorific title in the
Arabic language. It commonly designates the ruler of a
tribe, who inherited the title from his father. "Sheikh" is given to a royal male at birth, whereas the related title "Sheikha" is given to a royal female at birth. "Sheikh" also often serves as a title for prominent
Islamic leaders or clerics.