noun
- a Turkish title of respect for men, especially those in positions of authority or education
Usage: historical; Turkish origin
Examples
- The Ottoman official was addressed as effendi by his subordinates.
- In old Turkish society, teachers were often called effendi.
- The merchant greeted the wealthy customer as effendi.
- Historical documents show effendi was used for government clerks.
- The title effendi indicated respect for educated men.
- Foreign diplomats learned to use effendi when addressing Turkish officials.