fakeer
Definition
Noun:
1. A Muslim or Hindu mendicant monk who is regarded as a holy man: A fakeer is an ascetic religious devotee, often associated with Sufism in Islam or certain devotional traditions in Hinduism, who lives a life of poverty and simplicity, relying on alms and dedicated to spiritual pursuits. They are commonly venerated as pious or saintly figures.
Usage
The word fakeer is used to refer specifically to the individual holy man. It is a somewhat dated or regionally specific term, more commonly encountered in historical or cultural texts about South Asia.
- The villagers sought the blessing of the old fakeer who lived by the river.
- In the story, the prince disguised himself as a humble fakeer to understand the lives of his people.
Advanced Usage
- Used as a title or form of address: The term can precede a name as an honorific.
- Fakeer Ibrahim was known for his wisdom and healing prayers.
Variants and Related Words
- Fakir (noun): The more common alternate spelling of .
- Dervish (noun): A term for a Muslim ascetic, particularly in Sufism, similar to a .
- Sadhu (noun): A Hindu ascetic holy man, similar in concept to a Hindu .
- Mendicant (noun/adjective): A formal term for someone who lives by begging, often for religious reasons.
Synonyms
- Ascetic
- Holy man
- Mendicant monk
- Dervish (in Islamic contexts)
- Sadhu (in Hindu contexts)
Antonyms
- Materialist
- Layperson
- Worldly person
Noun
-
a Muslim or Hindu mendicant monk who is regarded as a holy man
