1. Plural of khan; rulers or leaders of Mongol, Turkic, or Central Asian peoples, especially during the medieval period.
Usage: historical; often capitalized when referring to specific historical figures
2. Plural of khan; inns or caravanserais in Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries that provide lodging for travelers.
Usage: also spelled caravanserai

Examples

• The khans of the Mongol Empire controlled vast territories across Asia.
• Genghis Khan and his successors were among the most powerful khans in history.
• Merchants traveling the Silk Road would rest at khans along their journey.
• The ancient khans provided shelter and supplies to caravans passing through the desert.
• Several khans ruled different regions of the fragmented empire after the great khan's death.