The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

acolyte

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Dictionary definition of acolyte

A person who is a devoted and often enthusiastic follower or assistant, particularly in a religious or ceremonial context.
"She was an acolyte of the famous artist and learned everything she knew from him."

Detailed meaning of acolyte

In religious settings, an acolyte is someone who assists a clergy member during religious services, such as lighting candles, carrying sacred items, or performing other tasks to support the smooth flow of the ritual. Outside of religious contexts, the term can be used more broadly to describe a loyal and dedicated supporter or disciple of a particular person, cause, or ideology. Acolytes are often eager to learn from and serve their mentors, making their presence valuable in various fields beyond religion, such as politics, the arts, or even fandoms.

Example sentences containing acolyte

1. The priest's acolyte assisted him during the religious ceremony.
2. The famous musician had a dedicated acolyte who followed him everywhere.
3. The teacher's acolyte helped organize the classroom and prepare lesson materials.
4. The coach's acolyte looked up to him as a mentor and role model.
5. The politician had a loyal acolyte who supported him in all his endeavors.
6. The professor's acolyte assisted with research projects and grading assignments.

History and etymology of acolyte

The noun 'acolyte' has its etymological origins in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word 'akolouthos,' which means 'follower' or 'attendant.' In ancient Greece, an 'akolouthos' was someone who accompanied or followed a person of higher status, often as an assistant or disciple. Over time, the term was adopted into Latin as 'acolythus' and later into Old French as 'acolite,' both retaining its original meaning of a devoted follower or attendant. In religious and ceremonial contexts, an 'acolyte' is a person who assists in religious rituals, particularly in Christian traditions, often carrying out various duties during church services. In a broader sense, 'acolyte' is used to describe anyone who is a devoted and often enthusiastic follower or assistant, whether in religious, cultural, or other contexts. The etymology of 'acolyte' reflects its historical association with the concept of followership and assistance to a higher authority or cause.

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Further usage examples of acolyte

1. The artist's acolyte learned techniques and styles by observing and working alongside him.
2. The CEO's acolyte was always by her side, providing guidance and support.
3. The guru had many devoted acolytes who followed his teachings religiously.
4. The knight's acolyte trained tirelessly to become a skilled warrior like his mentor.
5. The magician's acolyte assisted with stage illusions and learned the secrets of the trade.
6. The renowned chef had an acolyte who aspired to be just as skilled in the culinary arts.
7. The spiritual leader's acolytes gathered around him, eager to receive his wisdom.
8. The author's acolyte helped with editing and proofreading manuscripts.
9. The scientist's acolyte eagerly absorbed knowledge during their laboratory experiments.
10. The acolyte of the secret society carried out tasks and rituals under the guidance of senior members.
11. The young boy was an acolyte at the church and assisted the priest during mass.
12. The acolyte performed various tasks such as lighting candles and ringing bells.
13. He was an acolyte of the guru and followed his teachings with great devotion.
14. The acolyte was responsible for preparing the altar for the ceremony.
15. She was an acolyte of the author and read all of her books.
16. The acolyte assisted the priest during the sacraments.
17. He was an acolyte of the master chef and learned the secrets of fine cuisine.
18. The acolyte was a trainee in the religious order.
19. She was an acolyte of the scientist and worked with her in the lab.
20. The acolyte's main duty was to assist the priest during the liturgy.
21. He was an acolyte of the musician and learned to play the instrument from him.