mentor
0 antonyms and opposites of mentor, grouped by meaning.
Noun — An experienced, trusted advisor who guides someone less experienced.
How to use mentor
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From the character Mentor in Homer's Odyssey, the trusted advisor left in charge of Odysseus's son Telemachus — the name became a general word for "wise counselor."
Full origin of mentor →Frequently asked questions
What does “mentor” mean?
The word “mentor” means an experienced, trusted advisor who guides someone less experienced. In plain terms, a trusted, experienced guide, or to act as one.
How do you pronounce “mentor”?
“Mentor” is pronounced MEHN-taw (/ˈmɛn.toɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “mentor” in a sentence?
Here is “mentor” used in a sentence: “Her mentor at the firm helped her navigate the first tough year.”
What part of speech is “mentor”?
Depending on how it is used, “mentor” can be a noun and a verb.
Is “mentor” a common word?
“Mentor” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “mentor” have?
“Mentor” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an experienced, trusted advisor who guides someone less experienced.
What is the difference between a mentor and a coach?
A mentor is an experienced, trusted advisor who offers long-term, broad guidance drawn from their own experience, often about a career or life path. A coach usually focuses on developing specific skills or performance over a shorter, more structured period. Mentoring tends to be relationship-led, while coaching is goal-led.
What is the difference between a mentor and a mentee?
A mentor is the experienced person who gives guidance, while a mentee (also called a protégé) is the less experienced person who receives it. The mentor advises; the mentee learns.
What is the difference between a mentor and a tutor?
A tutor teaches a particular subject or skill, usually in an academic setting. A mentor offers wider guidance and advice drawn from experience, which may cover career, personal growth, or professional judgement rather than a single subject.
Can "mentor" be used as a verb?
Yes. "To mentor" means to act as a mentor to someone, guiding and advising a less experienced person. For example, "she mentors new employees" or "he was mentored by a senior colleague."