follower

/'fɔlouə/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Noun: 1. Someone who travels behind or pursues another: A person who moves in the same direction as another, typically behind them. 2. A person who accepts the leadership of another: An individual who supports, admires, or obeys a particular leader, teacher, or set of ideas.

Usage and Examples
  • As someone moving behind another:
    • The tour guide had a long line of followers as she walked through the museum.
    • He glanced in his rearview mirror to check for any followers.
  • As a supporter or adherent of a person or cause:
    • She is a loyal follower of the philosopher's teachings.
    • The politician thanked his followers for their unwavering support.
    • The social media influencer has millions of followers online.
Advanced Usage and Nuances
  • "Blind follower": A person who follows or obeys without question or critical thought.
    • He was not a leader but a blind follower of the regime's ideology.
  • In a hierarchical or social context: The term often implies a subordinate or less powerful position relative to the leader.
    • In many traditional dances, one partner is the leader and the other is the follower.
Variants and Related Words
  • Follow (verb): To go or come after; to accept as a guide or leader.
  • Following (noun/adj): A group of followers or supporters; coming after.
  • Followership (noun): The capacity or willingness to follow a leader.
Synonyms
  • Adherent: A person who follows a leader, party, or philosophy.
  • Disciple: A personal follower of a teacher, especially in a religious context.
  • Supporter: A person who approves of and encourages someone or something.
  • Devotee: A person who is very interested in and enthusiastic about someone or something.
Antonyms
  • Leader
  • Opponent
  • Critic
Related Phrases and Idioms
  • To be a follower, not a leader: A phrase describing someone who prefers to be guided by others rather than taking initiative or responsibility.
    • In group projects, he tends to be a follower, not a leader.
  • To gain/lose followers: To acquire or lose supporters, especially in contexts like social media or politics.
    • The controversial statement caused her to lose thousands of followers overnight.
Noun
  1. someone who travels behind or pursues another
  2. a person who accepts the leadership of another