Definition of mogul

The word "mogul" originates from the Persian word "mongul," which described the Central Asian tribes that invaded China during the Yuan dynasty in the 13th century. The Mongol empire established by Genghis Khan and his descendants was known as "Yuan" in China and "Ilkhanate" in Iran. In the 16th century, when the Mughal Empire emerged in India, its rulers were also referred to as "moghuls" or "moghuls" due to their perceived connection to the Mongol and Timurid empires that came before them. The Mughal Empire, named after its founder Babur, was a Muslims dynasty that ruled much of the Indian Subcontinent for over three centuries. Initially, the term "mogul" had a pejorative connotation, implying a tan or brown color, associated with the Central Asian invaders. However, during the Mughal Empire, "moghuls" referred neither to Mongols nor to color but to rulers. Eventually, as the British Empire expanded in India, the word "mogul" came to be used figuratively in the English language to refer to wealthy, powerful, and influential people, especially those in entrepreneurship or technology. Over time, it became less associated with Indian history and culture and more associated with modern-day moguls' achievements in various fields. So, in short, the word "mogul" originated from the Persian word "mongul," originally used to describe Mongol invaders, but its meaning has evolved over time to refer to both Mughal rulers and modern-day wealthy and powerful individuals.