shaman

noun

sha·​man ˈshä-mən How to pronounce shaman (audio)
ˈshā-,
 also  shə-ˈmän
plural shamans
1
: a priest or priestess who uses magic for the purpose of curing the sick, divining the hidden, and controlling events
2
: one who resembles a shaman
especially : high priest sense 3
shamanic
shə-ˈma-nik How to pronounce shaman (audio)
-ˈmä-
adjective

Examples of shaman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Pansori began to be recognized as a form of entertainment in the 17th century when it was performed by shamans and street performers. Joan MacDonald, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024 This is fitting given the sign's archetype of the shaman, Montúfar says. Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024 The wedding has intensified scrutiny and criticism of the views — and associated businesses — pedaled by the princess and the shaman. Alexander Smith, NBC News, 30 Aug. 2024 Skinwalkers Skinwalkers are a central figure in Navajo folklore, known as witches or evil shamans with the ability to shape-shift into animals or other people. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for shaman 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'shaman.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Evenki (Tungusic language of Siberia) šamān

First Known Use

1698, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shaman was in 1698

Dictionary Entries Near shaman

Cite this Entry

“Shaman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shaman. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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