German word

Jünger

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈjʏŋɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine noundisciple

Example

Die Jünger hörten dem Meister geduldig zu.

The disciples listened patiently to the master.

Illustration for Jünger (disciple)

More examples

Viele Jünger diskutierten seine Lehren.

Many disciples discussed his teachings.

Core concept

A learner stays close to a teacher or leader, listens carefully, and follows the teaching in belief and practice.

Common phrases

  • als Jünger leben

    live as a disciple

  • ein gehorsamer Jünger

    an obedient disciple

Similar words

Schüler: A person who learns from a teacher, especially in a school.
Anhänger: A supporter who follows a religion, leader, or set of teachings.
Lehrling: A trainee who learns a skilled trade through practical workplace instruction.
Nachfolger: A person who takes over another person's position or role.

Definition in German

Eine Person, die einem Lehrer oder Führer eng folgt und seine Lehren annimmt; besonders im religiösen oder ideologischen Bereich.

Word origin

Jünger is an inherited Germanic formation related to jung and originally denoted a younger person before developing the sense of a teacher's follower.

Usage tips

  • Jünger has a formal, often religious or ideological tone, while Schüler is more usual for an ordinary pupil and Anhänger for a general supporter.

Other meanings

  • followernoun
  • adherentnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • Jüngerschaftbody of disciplesnoun

Word lists with this word