What is another word for caliphs?
Pronunciation: [kˈalɪfz] (IPA) 
Caliphs, the Muslim political leaders who succeeded Prophet Muhammad, have been referred to by several synonymous terms over time. One commonly used synonym is "khalifas." This spelling is more common in South Asia and is derived from the Arabic pronunciation of the word. Another term used to refer to caliphs is "imams." This word is more commonly used in Shia Muslim circles and refers to the spiritual leaders of their community. "Sultans" is another synonym for caliphs. This term is more commonly associated with the Ottoman Empire, where the ruler was referred to as "sultan" instead of "caliph." Despite these synonyms, the term "caliph" remains the most accurate for describing this historical Islamic office.
