follower

noun

fol·​low·​er ˈfä-lə-wər 

1

a

: one in the service of another : retainer

b

: one that follows the opinions or teachings of another

c

: one that imitates another

2

archaic : one that chases

3

: a sheet added to the first sheet of an indenture or other deed

4

: a machine part that receives motion from another part

5

: a spring-loaded plate at the bottom of a firearm's magazine that angles cartridges for proper insertion into the chamber

6

: fan, devotee

7

: one who subscribes to a feed especially on social media

His account has thousands of followers.

Synonyms of follower

• adherent
• disciple

Choose the Right Synonym for follower

follower, adherent, disciple, partisan mean one who gives full loyalty and support to another.

follower may apply to people who attach themselves either to the person or beliefs of another.

an evangelist and his followers

adherent suggests a close and persistent attachment.

adherents to Marxism

disciple implies a devoted allegiance to the teachings of one chosen as a master.

disciples of Gandhi

partisan suggests a zealous often prejudiced attachment.

partisans of the President

Examples of follower in a Sentence

The party drew most of its followers from among young people.

The band has a large group of followers.

He had a reputation of being a follower, not a leader.

Recent Examples on the Web

Other creators nominated in the category included prominent social media stars Alix Earle, Adam W, Brooke Monk and Kristy Sarah, all of whom boast millions of followers on the platform. —Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 19 Dec. 2025

His Instagram follower count rose from the 8-9k follower range to 125k a week later. —Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Dec. 2025

While a growing flock of more than 280,000 Instagram followers appreciate posts showing the sisters' high jinks and capers — such as Sister Rita's boxing sessions — the provost's spokesperson, Harald Schiffl, is less enthusiastic. —Esme Nicholson, NPR, 18 Dec. 2025

Emily somehow has 203,000 followers. —Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing follower

• camp follower

Kids Definition

follower

noun

fol·​low·​er ˈfäl-ə-wər 

1

: attendant entry 2 sense 1

2

: supporter, adherent

3

: disciple sense 1

4

: one who subscribes to a feed especially on social media