[], (Noun)

Definitions:
- A subject of the Ottoman Empire (especially a non-Muslim) who is not a member of the ruling class, and is therefore liable to pay a poll tax.


Phrases:

Origin:
early 18th century. From colloquial Ottoman Turkish rāyā from raʿāyā, plural of Arabic raʿīya non-Muslim tax-paying subjects of the Ottoman Empire, specific use of raʿīya herd, flock from raʿā to pasture, feed