Disciple: meaning, definitions and examples

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disciple

[dɪˈsaɪpəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

follower

A disciple is someone who follows a teacher or leader. They learn from this person and try to live according to their teachings. Disciples are often associated with religious or spiritual contexts.

Synonyms

adherent, follower, pupil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disciple	Usually used in a religious or spiritual context to describe someone who follows and spreads the teachings of a particular leader or teacher. Jesus had twelve disciples who spread his teachings. Buddha's disciples played a key role in propagating Buddhism.
follower	Commonly used to describe someone who supports and admires a person, group, or belief. It can have a neutral or positive connotation. She has thousands of followers on social media. The philosopher had many followers who attended his lectures.
adherent	Often used in general contexts to describe someone who supports a particular idea, plan, or person. He was an adherent of the new policy changes. Many adherents of the movement gathered for the rally.
pupil	Typically used in educational contexts to refer to a student, especially in a primary or secondary school setting. The teacher praised her pupils for their excellent exam results. As a young pupil, he showed a strong interest in science.

Examples of usage

He was a devoted disciple of Mahatma Gandhi.
The disciples of Jesus traveled far and wide to spread his message.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

student

In a broader sense, a disciple can also refer to a student or learner in any field of study or practice. It implies a deep commitment to learning and mastering the teachings or skills of a particular teacher.

Synonyms

apprentice, learner, student.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
disciple	Used often in religious or philosophical contexts where a person follows the teachings of a specific leader or doctrine. This word can carry a sense of deep devotion. The disciples of the guru gathered every evening for meditation Jesus had twelve disciples who spread his teachings
student	Typically used in an academic setting where an individual is enrolled in an educational institution such as a school, college, or university. It implies a formalized study environment. She is a student at Harvard University studying biology As a student, he needs to complete several assignments each semester
apprentice	Commonly used in the context of trade or hands-on professions where a person is learning a craft or skill under the guidance of a skilled worker. This often implies a formal relationship. The young man became an apprentice to a master blacksmith She spent five years as an apprentice before becoming a certified electrician
learner	A general term that can apply to anyone actively acquiring knowledge or skill in any field. It is neutral and does not imply any specific type of relationship. He is a fast learner and quickly picked up the new software Lifelong learners often seek new courses and books to broaden their knowledge

Examples of usage

She was a disciple of martial arts, training diligently every day.
The young artist considered himself a disciple of the great painters before him.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Latin word 'discipulus,' meaning 'student' or 'pupil.'
In ancient times, a disciple would often live with their teacher to learn directly from them.
Many religions, including Christianity and Buddhism, refer to their followers as disciples to signify devotion.

Religious Significance

In Christianity, the term predominantly refers to the twelve apostles who followed Jesus and spread his teachings.
Discipleship is seen as a commitment to live according to the teachings of one's spiritual leader.
Buddhist disciples follow the teachings of the Buddha, aiming for enlightenment by practicing what he preached.

Literature

Disciples are often depicted in literature as protagonists who undergo transformation by learning from their mentors.
In classical works, the relationship between a disciple and teacher often explores themes of loyalty and personal growth.
Famous literary disciples include Sancho Panza from 'Don Quixote,' who learns about bravery and reality from his master.

Psychology

Studies suggest that having a mentor or teacher can enhance a person's motivation to learn and grow.
The disciple-teacher relationship can lead to deeper understanding and stronger emotional connections.
In psychological terms, discipleship signifies a commitment to developmental growth, often linking to identity formation.

Pop Culture

In various movies and shows, the 'disciple' character often faces challenges that test their loyalty and teachings.
Popular culture showcases disciple figures in superhero narratives, where sidekicks learn from experienced heroes.
Video games often leverage the disciple trope, where players follow a mentor's directions to achieve goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "disciple" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discípulo

🇮🇳 शिष्य

🇩🇪 Jünger

🇮🇩 murid

🇺🇦 учень

🇵🇱 uczeń

🇯🇵 弟子 (deshi)

🇫🇷 disciple

🇪🇸 discípulo

🇹🇷 mürit

🇰🇷 제자 (jeja)

🇸🇦 تلميذ

🇨🇿 učedník

🇸🇰 učeník

🇨🇳 弟子 (dìzǐ)

🇸🇮 učenec

🇮🇸 lærisveinn

🇰🇿 шәкірт

🇬🇪 მოსწავლე

🇦🇿 şagird

🇲🇽 discípulo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,057, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10054 monstrous
10055 disagreeable
10056 alleviate
10057 disciple
10058 consecrated
10059 genome
10060 mythology
...