noun
- a Muslim woman of high rank, especially the wife or widow of a high-ranking official
Usage: historical; South Asian
Examples
- The begum held considerable influence in the royal court.
- She was known as Begum Sahiba throughout the region.
- The begum’s palace was famous for its beautiful gardens.
- Many begums were patrons of arts and literature.
- The title of begum was passed down through generations.
- Local people showed great respect to the begum.