Acolytes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A group of attendants or followers who assist in religious ceremonies or rituals
2. Individuals who support or uphold a cause, often in a subordinate role
3. Devotees or learners who are guided by a mentor or leader in a specific field or discipline

Etymology: "Acolytes" is the plural of "acolyte," and the singular began as a plain Greek word for a companion or attendant. In ancient Greek, "akolouthos" meant "follower" or "attendant," built from "a" (together) and "keleuthos" (path, way), so the sense is roughly one who goes the same way with you. That literal image of walking alongside someone is what the word carried for centuries before it took on any ceremonial meaning. The word passed into Latin as "acolythus," which the Church adopted for a minor clerical role, a server who assisted in the liturgy. Through Old French "acolyt," it reached Middle English as "acolite" or "acolit," and the religious sense remained strong in English for a long time. The modern meaning of a devoted follower or apprentice of a mentor grew out of that image of a servant who stays close to a figure of authority.

Synonyms: assistants, followers, attendants, disciples, supporters