Page 1 of 1

acolyte

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2011 1:22 pm
by sardith
Dear Dr. Goodword,

I noticed that you hadn't gotten around to this excellent word. I'd love to read your thoughts, and I have a question that I'll throw out to everyone. I noticed that this word is often used in the pejorative, and in that sense, wondered if you think it is coming close to the insult of being called a myrmidon?

Thanks,
Sardith

acolyte
n.
1. One who assists the celebrant in the performance of liturgical rites.
2. A devoted follower or attendant.

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2011 1:27 pm
by Perry Lassiter
And myrmidon with its connotations means...?

acolyte

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2011 3:26 pm
by sardith
...a mindless follower, someone who doesn't think for themselves.

...and does acolyte have a always have a religious connotation?

Posted: Thu Dec 08, 2011 3:45 pm
by Perry Lassiter
Oh, surely not. I can't cite chapter and verse, but I have clear images of ceo types rushing down the hallway followed by acolites. Ditto for Senators and other so-called high powered people.

Posted: Sun Dec 25, 2011 6:57 pm
by LukeJavan8
I know "acolyte" was an ordained "minor Order" in the
Roman Church, decades ago.