Shaman: meaning, definitions and examples

A shaman is a spiritual figure often found in indigenous cultures. They are believed to have the ability to communicate with the spiritual world and perform rituals for healing and guidance.

• The shaman conducted a ceremony to help the villagers connect with their ancestors
• The tribe's shaman was respected for his deep wisdom and healing powers

A medicine man is often associated with Native American tribes. They use traditional knowledge of herbs, rituals, and spiritual practices to heal people and provide guidance.

• The medicine man used herbs and chants to cure the sick child
• The elders called the medicine man to bless the new gathering place

The term witch doctor is often used pejoratively and may evoke a negative connotation. It refers to someone who practices traditional medicine and rituals, often in an African or Caribbean context, but the term can be considered disrespectful.

• The villagers sought the witch doctor's help during the drought
• Stories of the witch doctor's powers were told throughout the region

A spiritual healer can be anyone, regardless of cultural background, who uses spiritual methods such as energy healing, reiki, or faith-based practices to help others. This term is more modern and less culture-specific.

• She visited a spiritual healer to find relief from her chronic pain
• The spiritual healer guided the group through a meditation session for emotional healing