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

The content creator, who has garnered over 7 million followers across social platforms, made headlines earlier this year for her over-the-top nuptials with Pownall. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 26 Dec. 2025

That growth has included a launch into social media stardom, with more than a million combined followers on TikTok and Instagram clamoring for videos from the business, often starring Jennifer’s elderly father, Duane Swenk, and his love for music megastar Taylor Swift. —Mary Ramsey updated December 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Dec. 2025

The muddiness of Manchester gives way to a brighter color palette later in the film as Lee and her followers travel to America in pursuit of religious freedom. —Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 25 Dec. 2025

The religious sect at one point had 6,000 followers. —Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 25 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