Followers

/ˈfɒləʊəz/

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

People who admire and support a particular person, group, or idea.

/ˈfɒləʊəz/

nounneutralBeginner
General

People who support or admire a particular person or idea.

The band has a huge number of followers on social media.

💡 Simply: Imagine a popular YouTuber! Their 'followers' are the people who like their videos, subscribe to their channel, and watch everything they post. They're fans who want to see more from that person!

👶 For kids: Followers are people who like someone and pay attention to what they do, like when you follow a friend.

More Examples

2

The guru's followers believed in his teachings.

3

The politician's followers turned out to support him at the rally.

How It's Used

Social Media

"The influencer gained thousands of followers in a week."

Politics

"The politician addressed his followers during the rally."

2

Those who believe in and practice the ideas of a certain person, religion, or philosophy.

/ˈfɒləʊəz/

nounneutralmedium
Technology

People who pursue and adhere to the teachings or doctrines of a particular person or school of thought.

The followers of the prophet observed strict dietary laws.

💡 Simply: Think about a famous teacher, a religious leader, or someone with a strong belief system. Their 'followers' are the people who believe what they believe and often try to live their lives according to those teachings. It's like being a member of their 'team' of believers!

👶 For kids: Followers are people who listen to a special leader and try to be like them.

More Examples

2

His followers adhered to his philosophical principles.

3

The religious leader's followers attended the annual pilgrimage.

How It's Used

Religion

"Followers of Islam practice certain religious rituals."

Philosophy

"The philosopher's followers embraced his ideas on ethics."

Tip:Picture people walking behind a religious leader; they are his followers.

Idioms & expressions

a strong following

A large and dedicated group of supporters.

"The band built a strong following through constant touring and engaging with fans."

gain a following

To acquire supporters; to attract people who admire and follow someone.

"The new artist is starting to gain a following."

Follow the leader

Imitating what someone else is doing, especially without thinking.

"In school, if one student starts to get a bit of a giggle going, others will often follow the leader."

From Old English 'folgian' (to follow) + '-er' (agent suffix). The term evolved to represent those who subscribe to or support someone or something.

The term 'followers' has been used for centuries, initially related to the concept of 'following' a person in a literal sense, and later evolving to describe those who support or believe in an idea or person.

Memory tip

Think of 'followers' like a group of people always following someone's lead.

folowersfolowerss

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written