Disciple
/dɪˈsaɪ.pəl/noun
A follower or student of a teacher, leader, or philosopher.
Did you know?The term 'disciple' comes from a root that means 'to learn', linking it to ancient practices of spiritual guidance and initiation into hidden knowledge.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*deik-
“to show or to point out, often in a guiding manner.”
Latin
Latin
discipulus
“a learner or pupil, derived from 'discere' meaning 'to learn'.”
Old French
Old French
disciple
“a follower or student, particularly in a religious context.”
Middle English
Middle English
discipul
“a person who learns from or follows a teacher, especially in a spiritual sense.”
Modern English
English
disciple
“a devoted follower or student of a leader or teacher.”