Pilgrim Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pilgrim
[ˈpɪl.ɡrɪm ]
Definitions
religious journey
A pilgrim is a person who travels to a sacred place for religious reasons.
Synonyms
devotee, peregrine, worshipper.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pilgrim |
Used when referring to someone who travels to a sacred place as an act of religious devotion.
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| peregrine |
Used primarily in literature or historical texts to describe someone who is traveling, usually for a long distance; this word is less common in modern usage.
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| worshipper |
Refers to someone who participates in religious services or practices, focusing on the act of worship rather than the journey.
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| devotee |
Best suited for someone with profound dedication to a cause, person, or religious practice.
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Examples of usage
- The pilgrim traveled to Mecca for Hajj.
- She embarked on a pilgrimage to Lourdes.
historical context
In American history, a Pilgrim refers to one of the English settlers who founded the Plymouth Colony in 1620.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pilgrim |
This term is used to describe someone who travels to a holy place for religious reasons. It has a historical connotation, often associated with people who journeyed to sacred sites.
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| settler |
Refers to a person who moves to live in a new area, often in previously uninhabited or newly established regions. Like 'colonist', it can have negative connotations related to displacement of original inhabitants.
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| colonist |
Used for a person who settles in a new colony, particularly in the context of historical expansions and settlements. This term often has a negative connotation due to the impact on indigenous populations.
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| founder |
This term is used for someone who establishes an institution, city, or organization. It suggests a role of leadership and creation.
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Examples of usage
- The Pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621.
- The Pilgrims faced many challenges in the New World.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'peregrinus', meaning 'foreigner' or 'traveler', indicating a journey into the unknown.
- Early pilgrims often traveled on foot and faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather and rough terrains.
- The most famous group known as pilgrims traveled on the Mayflower in 1620 to establish a new life in America.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures have forms of pilgrimage, such as the Hajj in Islam, where millions travel to Mecca each year.
- In many religions, pilgrimages are seen as a way to seek spiritual blessings or forgiveness.
- Pilgrims often gather at specific festivals that celebrate their faith, such as the Kumbh Mela in India, which attracts millions.
Literature
- John Bunyan's 'The Pilgrim's Progress' is a famous work that uses a journey as a metaphor for the Christian experience.
- Pilgrimage narratives appear in many classical texts and folklore, often highlighting personal transformation through travel.
- In medieval literature, stories of pilgrimages often included tales of encounters with mystical beings or divine interventions.
Modern Pilgrimages
- Today, routes like the Camino de Santiago in Spain attract thousands of modern pilgrims seeking reflection and adventure.
- Pilgrimages are now often associated with personal growth and seeking a deeper connection to spirituality amid life's distractions.
- Many organizations today promote wellness and self-discovery through group pilgrimages across different cultures.
Psychology
- Research suggests that embarking on a pilgrimage can have positive effects on mental health, providing stress relief and improved well-being.
- Pilgrimages allow for introspection and connection to oneself, often resulting in a sense of purpose or clarity.
- The communal aspect of modern pilgrimages helps build social connections, alleviating feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Origin of 'pilgrim'
The word 'pilgrim' has its origins in Middle English, from the Old French 'pelerin', meaning 'foreigner, stranger'. It was later influenced by the Latin 'peregrinus', which referred to a traveler or foreigner. The concept of pilgrimage has deep roots in various religious traditions, with pilgrims journeying to holy sites as an act of devotion and seeking spiritual fulfillment.