disciple
dih-SEYE-puhl
Disciple (noun) means someone who follows and learns from a teacher or leader, especially a religious or philosophical one. Example: “The twelve disciples travelled with Jesus and spread his teachings.”
noun
1
Someone who follows and learns from a teacher or leader, especially a religious or philosophical one.
"The twelve disciples travelled with Jesus and spread his teachings."
"She became a disciple of the guru after years of reading his books."
verb
1
To teach and guide someone as a follower.
"The older members disciple newer converts one-on-one."
How to use disciple
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA follower who learns from and looks up to a teacher or leader.
Common mistake
Usually capitalized when referring to the twelve followers of Jesus specifically; lowercase for general followers of any idea or person.
Common pairings
a disciple of
devoted disciple
disciple someone in the faith
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Word forms
- Plural
- disciples
- Third person singular
- disciples
- Past tense
- discipled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The twelve _____ travelled with Jesus and spread his teachings.
Etymology
From Latin discipulus, "pupil, learner," via Old English and Old French — the same root that gives us "discipline."
Related words
Rhymes for disciple
See all rhymes for disciple →Frequently asked questions
What does “disciple” mean?
The word “disciple” means someone who follows and learns from a teacher or leader, especially a religious or philosophical one. In plain terms, a follower who learns from and looks up to a teacher or leader.
How do you pronounce “disciple”?
“Disciple” is pronounced dih-SEYE-puhl (/dɪˈsaɪ.pəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “disciple” in a sentence?
Here is “disciple” used in a sentence: “The twelve disciples travelled with Jesus and spread his teachings.”
What is another word for “disciple”?
Words with a similar meaning to “disciple” include student.
What part of speech is “disciple”?
Depending on how it is used, “disciple” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “disciple” come from?
The word “disciple” comes from Latin. From Latin discipulus, "pupil, learner," via Old English and Old French — the same root that gives us "discipline.".
Is “disciple” a common word?
“Disciple” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “disciple” have?
“Disciple” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: someone who follows and learns from a teacher or leader, especially a religious or philosophical one.
