TRENDEFRAtlas of the Sultans · Glossary
Term · Sovereignty and central government
Also known as: Sadrazam, vezîriâzam
The highest official of state, who governed as the sultan's absolute deputy.
Until the late 16th century the term vezîriâzam (greatest vizier) was more common; the title sadrazam spread from the second half of that century. The grand vizier chaired the Imperial Council, held the sultan's seal and could also lead campaigns as commander-in-chief. His office was called Paşakapısı and eventually the Sublime Porte.
Source: TDV Encyclopedia of Islam, article “SADRAZAM” (in Turkish); text condensed for the atlas.