acolyte

/ˈæ.kə.laɪt/

Group 19Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(noun)
A person assisting the celebrant in a religious service; a follower or attendant
GRE

Example in Context

The senator's acolytes in the legislature faithfully voted with him on every bill, never questioning the party line.

Synonyms

followerdevoteedisciple

Etymology

Acolytus means a follower, hence an assistant in a religious context.

  • acolytus (Latin) — follower

Memory Aid

🔔Sounds like “a call light

When the priest rings the CALL LIGHT, the ACOLYTE rushes in like a superhero!

Visual Association

A shiny, golden robe-wearing assistant dashing toward a church altar, ready to help.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “acolyte” mean on the GRE?

acolyte (noun) means “A person assisting the celebrant in a religious service; a follower or attendant”. The senator's acolytes in the legislature faithfully voted with him on every bill, never questioning the party line.

How to remember “acolyte” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “acolyte” sounds like “a call light”. When the priest rings the CALL LIGHT, the ACOLYTE rushes in like a superhero!

What are synonyms for “acolyte”?

Common synonyms: follower, devotee, disciple.