Definition

Proper noun Ahmad Shah Massoud (often spelled 'Masoud' in English transliterations) was a prominent Afghan military leader and politician. He was a key figure in the resistance against the Soviet occupation in the 1980s and later led the Northern Alliance against the Taliban regime. He was assassinated in 2001.

Usage Notes

• 'Masoud' refers specifically to the historical figure Ahmad Shah Massoud.
• It is a proper noun used as a name.
• The word is typically used in historical, political, or biographical contexts.

Examples

• Historical Context:
• Biographical Reference:
• Political Discussion:

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively to describe things associated with him.
  • Masoud's forces regrouped in the north.
  • The Masoud faction held a key position.

Variants and Related Words

• Ahmad Shah Massoud: The full name.
• The Lion of Panjshir: His common epithet in English.
• Northern Alliance: The coalition he led.

Synonyms

• Ahmad Shah Massoud
• The Lion of Panjshir (epithet)

Notes on Meaning

This is a proper noun with a single referent: the historical person. It does not have multiple general meanings. Its usage is confined to discussions about modern Afghan history.

Noun

1. Afghan leader of forces opposed to the Taliban; won fame by successfully resisting the Soviets in the 1980s; was assassinated by men posing as journalists (1953-2001)