discipleship
UK[dɪˈsaɪpl̩ʃɪp]US[dɪˈsaɪpl̩ʃɪp]
n
the state or condition of being a disciple; the practice of following the teachings of a leader, especially a religious one.
n
the process of learning and spreading the doctrines or principles of a master or school of thought.
Morpheme Breakdown
disciple
ship
disciple
ship
Etymology
the word 'discipleship' is a modern english compound built upon the much older noun 'disciple'. 'disciple' itself originates from latin discipulus ('learner, pupil'), which is derived from the verb discere ('to learn'). the proto-indo-European root is thought to be dek- ('to take, accept'), which also gives us words like 'decent' and 'docile', conceptually linked to being teachable. the suffix '-ship', of germanic origin, is used to form abstract nouns indicating a state, condition, or status. therefore, 'discipleship' literally means 'the state or condition of being a learner or follower', evolving from the concrete notion of a student to the broader, often spiritual, concept of devoted adherence to a master's teachings and way of life.
Analysis
Structure: disciple + ship
disciple (from latin discipulus, meaning 'pupil, learner', from discere 'to learn'); ship (from old english -scipe, a noun-forming suffix denoting state, condition, quality, or office).
Examples
his life was a profound example of christian discipleship.
the rabbi emphasized that true discipleship requires daily study and practice.
the program focuses on leadership development and personal discipleship.