Dis‐ci″ple (?), n. [OE. disciple, deciple, OF. disciple, fr. L. discipulus, fr. discere to learn (akin to docere to teach; see Docile) + prob. a root meaning to turn or drive, as in L. pellere to drive (see Pulse).] One who receives instruction from another; a scholar; a learner; especially, a follower who has learned to believe in the truth of the doctrine of his teacher; an adherent in doctrine; as, the disciples of Plato; the disciples of our Savior.
The disciples, orThe twelve disciples, the twelve selected companions of Jesus; — also called the apostles. — Disciples of Christ. See Christian, n., 3, and Campbellite.
Syn. — Learner; scholar; pupil; follower; adherent.