shaman
Definition
Noun: * A person, in a society that practices shamanism, who acts as an intermediary between the visible, physical world and the invisible spirit world. A shaman is believed to have the ability to communicate with spirits, often entering a trance state, and uses this connection for purposes such as healing, divination (seeing the future or gaining hidden knowledge), and guiding the community.
Usage Examples
- The village shaman performed a ritual to heal the sick child.
- In many indigenous cultures, the shaman is a respected spiritual leader and healer.
- She studied the practices of a shaman who used chants and drumming to enter a trance.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used metaphorically in modern contexts to describe someone with perceived deep, almost mystical, knowledge or healing ability in a particular field.
- The old mechanic was a shaman of vintage car engines.
Variants and Related Words
- Shamanic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a shaman or shamanism.
- They studied shamanic rituals.
- Shamanism (noun): The practice, religion, or worldview associated with shamans.
- The anthropology course included a module on Siberian shamanism.
Synonyms
- Medicine man / medicine woman
- Spiritual healer
- Sorcerer (specifically one who uses power for healing or divination)
- Seer
Related Idioms & Phrases
- Shamanic journey: A trance-like state, often induced by drumming or chanting, in which a shaman's spirit is believed to travel to other worlds.
- The shamanic journey is a core practice for seeking guidance from the spirit world.
Noun
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in societies practicing shamanism: one acting as a medium between the visible and spirit worlds; practices sorcery for healing or divination
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