khalsa

noun

khal·​sa
ˈkäl(t)sə
plural -s
1
: the exchequer of an Indian state
2
usually capitalized : a militant theocracy arising in the late 17th century and continuing today as one of the significant divisions of the Sikhs compare nanakpanthi

Word History

Etymology

Hindi ḵẖāliṣa, ḵẖālṣa pure, genuine, from Persian, from Arabic khālisah

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near khalsa

Cite this Entry

“Khalsa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/khalsa. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!