The Ottomans first formally used the title in the 16th century as an epithet of Hafsa Sultan (died 1534), mother of Sultan Suleyman I (r. 1520–1566), superseding the previous epithets of Valide Hatun (lady mother), mehd-i ulya ("cradle of the great").

Those mothers who died before their sons' accession to the throne never received the title of valide sultan.

The word valide (والده) literally means 'mother' in Ottoman Turkish, from Arabic wālida.

Many valide sultans undertook massive philanthropic endeavors and buildings, as this was seen as one of the main ways to demonstrate influence and wealth.

Valide sultans were also conveniently one of the few people within the empire with the station and means to embark on these expensive projects.

She had mobility outside of the harem, sometimes through ceremonial visibility to the public or veiled meetings with government officials and diplomats.

Additionally, the valide sultan spearheaded one of the most crucial elements of diplomacy within the Ottoman Empire’s court: marriages of royal princesses.

The most powerful and influential valide sultans had multiple daughters, with whom they forged crucial alliances through by marriage.

Two Valide sultans acted as regents for their sons, assuming the vast power and influence the position entailed.

These positions helped them solidify their own power within the imperial court and ease diplomatic tensions on a broader, international scale.