술탄, or "sultan," is a title used for a ruler in some Islamic countries, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa. The term originates from Arabic, meaning "authority" or "power." Historically, sultans governed vast empires and were often seen as both political and religious leaders. In modern times, the title is still used in some regions, such as in Brunei and Oman. Sultans may have varying degrees of power, from absolute rulers to constitutional monarchs, depending on the country's political structure. The role of a sultan often includes overseeing governance, law, and cultural traditions.