1. Plural of effendi; a man of high social status, education, or authority in Ottoman or Middle Eastern contexts; a title of respect.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when used as a title; borrowed from Turkish/Arabic

Examples

• The Ottoman effendis gathered in the palace to discuss matters of state.
• Local effendis were respected for their learning and influence in the community.
• The merchant effendis controlled much of the trade in the city.
• He was addressed as Effendi, a title reserved for men of distinction.
• The effendis of the administrative class held considerable power during the empire.