druid
UK[ˈdruːɪd]US[ˈdruːɪd]
n
a priest, magician, or soothsayer in the ancient Celtic religion.
n
a member of a modern group that follows a spiritual or philosophical path inspired by the ancient druids.
Etymology
the english word 'druid' is borrowed from latin 'druides' (plural), which itself was taken from gaulish, a celtic language. the gaulish term is believed to be derived from a proto-celtic compound dru-wid-, meaning "oak-knower" or "strong seer," combining dru- (oak, strong) and wid- (to know, to see), the latter from the proto-indo-european root weid- (to see). this etymology reflects the druids' deep connection with nature, particularly oak groves, and their esteemed role as the learned priestly class in celtic societies. while the ancient druidic tradition faded, the term was revived in the 18th century and now also refers to modern practitioners of neopagan spiritual paths.
Analysis
the word 'druid' is a simplex loanword from latin. it cannot be meaningfully segmented into smaller morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
the ancient druid performed a ritual in the sacred grove.
she has studied celtic history and practices as a modern druid.
legends often portray the druid as a wise advisor to the king.