discepola

Discepola is the feminine noun in Italian meaning a female disciple, follower, or student of a teacher, mentor, or religious figure. It designates a woman who adheres to and learns from another’s teachings and is the feminine counterpart to discepolo. In religious contexts it is commonly used to describe female followers of a religious leader, such as a disciple of Jesus, but it can also refer to students or adherents of a philosopher or guide.

Etymology and forms: The term derives from Latin discipula, the feminine of discipulus, through the evolution of Italian discepola and its masculine partner discepolo. The English word disciple is a cognate, reflecting the same ancient roots.

Usage and nuance: In modern Italian discepola conveys a sense of loyalty and learning under a specific teacher or tradition. In everyday speech it is less frequent than discepolo or more general terms like seguace or allievo, depending on nuance. In secular contexts, discepola can describe a student or follower of a discipline, while in religious contexts it emphasizes spiritual or doctrinal guidance.

Related terms: discepolo (masculine form), discepolato (the state or process of being a disciple), and the general concept of disciple in other languages. See also disciple, follower, student of a teacher.