Disciple

The word disciple (the '-c-' is silent, IPA: /dɪs ˈaɪ pəl/) is derived from the Latin discipulus, 'learner, pupil'. In turn. this comes from the verb discere, 'to learn'. The Latin word was an everyday word for a pupil, but in English, the meanings develop from the Christian Bible.

• The Authorised Version uses the word for the followers of Jesus, especially the Twelve Apostles. These were the Disciples, a band of followers who accompanied Jesus during his ministry. There is a list at Twelve Apostles. Many other followers of Jesus have been called 'disciples'; indeed, some would say that all Christians are disciples. To distinguish these twelve, they are better called the Twelve Apostles than Twelve Disciples, although the word Apostle too has developed various other meanings.
• A disciple, then can be any Christian, or follower of Jesus.
• This becomes transferred to any follower of any religious teacher or leader, and then
• Any "one who follows, or is influenced by, the doctrine or example of another; one who belongs to the 'school' of any leader of thought" (OED, 1989).