Definitions

1. noun

A Muslim guardian or protector, especially one who oversees a mosque.

“The wali of the local mosque helped resolve the community dispute.”

2. noun

A title of respect for an older man or a man of high social status.

“The wali was invited to the village elder’s birthday celebration.”

3. noun

In some Muslim cultures, a wali is a person who is responsible for guiding a young man through his transition to adulthood.

“In the traditional Muslim culture, the wali played a significant role in the young man’s coming-of-age ceremony.”

4. noun

A title used by a king or emperor, especially in the Ottoman Empire.

“The wali was the title given to the Ottoman Sultan.”

5. noun

A title for the guardian of a woman or girl in some Islamic cultures.

“In the Islamic culture, the wali was responsible for the woman’s well-being and protection.”