Adherent

Vocabulary Spotlight

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A person who supports a particular party, person, or set of ideas.

“The adherents of the new policy were eager to see it implemented.”

Pronunciation

[ad-HEER-uhnt]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Follower
Supporter
Advocate
Believer
Devotee

Antonyms

Opponent
Critic
Detractor
Non-believer
Antagonist

Related Words

Alliance
Allegiance
Loyalty

Word Origin

“Adherent” is derived from the Latin “adhaerentem,” meaning “sticking to.”

Word Family

Noun: Adherent – A supporter or follower of something.

Noun: Adherence – Faithfulness or attachment to something.

Verb: Adhere – To stick firmly or follow closely.

Mnemonics

Think “Ad here, rent a follower” – An adherent is someone who sticks with or follows a belief or cause.

Industry-specific Usage

Politics

Adherents in politics show loyalty to a particular party or ideology.

Religion

Religious adherents follow specific beliefs and practices closely.

Marketing

In marketing, brand adherents show strong loyalty to specific brands.

In Context

An adherent is typically someone who supports an idea, belief, or leader, demonstrating strong loyalty or commitment.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is a synonym of “Adherent”?

Critic

Supporter

Opponent

Antagonist

‘Supporter’ is correct as it refers to someone who is in favor of or follows something.

2. Fill in the blank: The movement gained many _______ who shared its vision and goals.

adherents

critics

opponents

detractors

‘Adherents’ is appropriate as it describes supporters of a cause or vision.

3. In which context would “adherent” be MOST appropriate?

Opposing a belief

Showing support for a leader

Criticizing a policy

Breaking away from a group

‘Showing support for a leader’ is correct as adherent implies loyalty to an idea or person.