A scholar, sometimes applied to the followers of John the Baptist (Matthew 9:14), and of the Pharisees (22:16), but principally to the followers of Christ. A disciple of Christ is one who (1) believes his doctrine, (2) rests on his sacrifice, (3) imbibes his spirit, and (4) imitates his example (Matthew 10:24; Luke 14:26, 27, 33; John 6:69).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) One who receives instruction from another; a scholar; a learner; especially, a follower who has learned to believe in the truth of the doctrine of his teacher; an adherent in doctrine; as, the disciples of Plato; the disciples of our Savior.

2. (v. t.) To teach; to train.

3. (v. t.) To punish; to discipline.

4. (v. t.) To make disciples of; to convert to doctrines or principles.