Synonym Chooser

How is the word disciple different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of disciple are adherent, follower, and partisan. While all these words mean "one who gives full loyalty and support to another," disciple implies a devoted allegiance to the teachings of one chosen as a master.

disciples of Gandhi

Where would adherent be a reasonable alternative to disciple?

Although the words adherent and disciple have much in common, adherent suggests a close and persistent attachment.

adherents to Marxism

In what contexts can follower take the place of disciple?

While the synonyms follower and disciple are close in meaning, follower may apply to people who attach themselves either to the person or beliefs of another.

an evangelist and his followers

When can partisan be used instead of disciple?

The synonyms partisan and disciple are sometimes interchangeable, but partisan suggests a zealous often prejudiced attachment.

partisans of the President

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of disciple During the search for her body in the Pacific, a diver died of hypothermia; another woman, a disciple of McPherson’s, drowned in the ocean, hoping to meet her spiritual leader in death. Dorothy Fortenberry, The Atlantic, 12 May 2025 In these words, Peter, asked by the Master, together with the other disciples, about his faith in him, expressed the patrimony that the Church, through the apostolic succession, has preserved, deepened and handed on for two thousand years. Daniel Burke, NPR, 9 May 2025 Her inner 12-year-old self, one of the many disciples who adhered to the gospel of Blume, did just that — though Forever was not initially up for option. Jessica Wang, EW.com, 9 May 2025 Gaudium et Spes, 22), finally appearing to his disciples after the resurrection with his glorious body. Daniel Burke, NPR, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for disciple
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disciple
Noun
  • Here in the first city, the Catholic Church is at an extended crossroads of its own, calling for its leaders and adherents to engage in strategic planning and soul-searching of their own.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 10 May 2025
  • Even conscientious adherents to national security protocols acknowledge that classified U.S. government systems are far from convenient.
    Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 8 May 2025
Noun
  • On Instagram alone, both Life & Style and In Touch counted north of half a million followers in addition to robust websites.
    Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 30 May 2025
  • In her Instagram post, Maria Carolina warned her 173,000 followers to be careful when out on the road.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 30 May 2025
Noun
  • Under current Catholic doctrine, only men may become priests, based on the belief that Jesus chose male apostles.
    Barney Henderson, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025
  • Paprocki said he was struck by Pope Francis’ joy and reflected that the pontiff spoke to Paprocki and the other bishops with him not as a boss, but as a fellow apostle tasked with the same mission all priests have — to passionately advance their faith.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Pius was known for promoting the work of missionaries, and in 1923 sent a call out to orders worldwide to gather evidence of the church’s vast reach.
    Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 29 May 2025
  • It was started by missionaries Arthur and Laura Carson, who came over in the late 1800s.
    Jenna Thompson, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disciple.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disciple. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disciple

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