guru

noun

gu·​ru ˈgu̇r-(ˌ)ü 

ˈgü-(ˌ)rü

also gə-ˈrü

plural gurus

1

: a personal religious teacher and spiritual guide in Hinduism

2

a

: a teacher and especially intellectual guide in matters of fundamental concern

has been a guru to many young writers

b

: one who is an acknowledged leader or chief proponent

became the guru of the movement

c

: a person with knowledge or expertise : expert

a computer guru

Did you know?

In Hinduism, a guru is a personal spiritual teacher. In ancient India, knowledge of the Vedas (a body of liturgical literature) was transmitted orally from guru to pupil. The rise of the bhakti movement, which emphasizes the love of devotees for a personal god, further increased the importance of gurus, who were often looked on as living embodiments of spiritual truth and were identified with the deity. Gurus prescribe spiritual disciplines to their devotees, who follow their dictates in a tradition of service and obedience. Men or women may be gurus, though generally only men have established lineages.

Synonyms of guru

• expert
• master
• scholar
• adept
• wizard
• virtuoso

Examples of guru in a Sentence

He has been a guru to many young writers.

She's a self-proclaimed financial guru.

Fitness gurus call it the hottest new exercise trend of the year.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wellness gurus will also appreciate the range of treatments and healing modalities on offer at The Lotus Spa, from classic massages and facials to Reiki energy work and sound baths. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 June 2026

Marketing gurus have spent decades on the art and science of distilling a brand message into super-short 15- or 30-second ad bursts. —Todd Spangler, Variety, 11 June 2026

Kayne is many things, though queen of cashmere, beige’s biggest advocate, lifestyle guru, and Cali-cool designer are her main calling cards. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 9 June 2026

Created by The Weeknd and Euphoria showrunner Sam Levinson, The Idol followed a self-help guru and secret cult leader (The Weeknd) helping Depp's character, pop star Jocelyn, create an edgier image after being scrutinized by the media. —Marina Watts, Entertainment Weekly, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Hindi (or another Indo-Aryan vernacular language), borrowed from Sanskrit gurúḥ "highly respected person, teacher, spiritual guide," noun derivative of gurúḥ "heavy, weighty, venerable" — more at grave entry 2

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for guru

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup
• bijou

Kids Definition

guru

noun

gu·​ru gə-ˈrü 

ˈgu̇(ə)r-ü

1

: a personal religious teacher and spiritual guide in Hinduism

2

a

: a person that is generally recognized as a leader or teacher

b

: a person with knowledge and expertise : expert

Etymology

from gurū, a word in Hindi (the major language in India) meaning "Hindu teacher or spiritual guide," derived from Sanskrit guru (adjective) "worthy of respect"