Synonyms of disciple

disciple

noun

di-ˈsī-pəl 

as in adherent

one who follows the opinions or teachings of another

a circle of dedicated disciples who conscientiously wrote down everything the prophet said

Synonyms & Similar Words

• adherent
• follower
• apostle
• missionary
• devotee
• acolyte
• pupil
• student
• supporter
• votary
• scholar
• partizan
• soldier
• partisan
• admirer
• convert
• epigone
• protégé
• advocate
• liege man
• votarist
• faithful
• proselytizer
• worshiper
• fan
• loyalist
• ideologist
• worshipper
• champion
• enthusiast
• zealot
• cultist
• idolater
• flunkey
• sycophant
• idolator
• minion
• ideologue
• sectarian
• henchman
• idealogue
• lackey
• camp follower
• satellite
• apparatchik
• stooge
• flunkie
• backer
• yes-man
• hanger-on
• toady
• flunky
• lickspittle
• myrmidon

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• leader
• traitor
• renegade
• defector
• apostate
• turncoat
• coryphaeus

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

Recent Examples of disciple

Like all of the work by this disciple of Mexico’s most famous architect, Luis Barragán, the design is always focused on one particular concern: the human experience of inhabiting spaces. —Katia Contreras, Architectural Digest, 19 June 2025

The season will highlight pivotal moments, including the Last Supper (Jesus’ final meal with His disciples) and the Garden of Gethsemane, where He is betrayed and then arrested. —Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025

Lucas Madill and Ryan Hamilton, two sports psychiatrists who work with Hockey Canada now, were disciples of Gardiner’s. —Scott Wheeler, New York Times, 15 June 2025

All of your disciples will be geeked to receive you. —Erik Pedersen, Deadline, 9 June 2025