sikh
UK[siːk]US[siːk]
n
A follower of Sikhism, a monotheistic religion founded in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century.
Etymology
The term 'Sikh' entered English directly from Punjabi, the language of the Punjab region where the faith originated. Its ultimate source is the Sanskrit word 'śiṣya', which carries the core meaning of 'disciple' or 'student'. This etymology perfectly encapsulates the fundamental relationship within Sikhism: a Sikh is a disciple of the teachings of the Guru. The word's journey from an ancient classical language to a modern religious identifier illustrates how a core concept of learning and adherence was preserved and specialized within a specific spiritual tradition.
Analysis
The word is a loanword from Punjabi, derived from the Sanskrit word 'śiṣya' meaning 'disciple' or 'learner'. It functions as a single, unsegmentable unit in English.
Examples
The Sikh gentleman wore a turban as part of his religious practice.
The Golden Temple in Amritsar is a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs.
She studied the Sikh principle of equality and community service.