Shaman
/ˈʃɑː.mən/noun
A person regarded as having access to and influence in the world of good and evil spirits, often acting as a mediator between the two.
Did you know?The term 'Shaman' is derived from a Tungusic word meaning 'to know,' highlighting the shaman's role as a keeper of secret knowledge and spiritual truths.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Tungusic
Tungusic
saman
“one who knows or has knowledge of the spiritual realm.”
Tungusic Languages
Tungusic
šaman
“a religious specialist or healer who communicates with spirits.”
17th Century
Russian
шаман (shaman)
“adopted from Siberian tribes, referring to a spiritual healer.”
18th Century
English
shaman
“introduced into English, denoting a spiritual guide or healer from various indigenous cultures.”