shaman

noun

sha·​man ˈshä-mən How to pronounce shaman (audio)
ˈshā-
also shə-ˈmän
plural shamans
Synonyms of shamannext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The retreats are usually led by facilitators, shamans or therapists. — Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 24 Mar. 2026 The only people believed capable of negotiating with the possessing winds, of restoring balance, are shamans of African descent. — Adam Pourahmadi, CNN Money, 22 Apr. 2026 Along the way, travelers will meet local shamans, experience traditional llanero (cowboy) culture, and be led by a Mayan spiritual guide and archaeologist. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 18 June 2026 Its story centers on the high school years of shaman duo Hwarim and Bonggil – the characters brought to screen by Kim Go-eun and Lee Do-hyun – charting how the pair first came together. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for shaman

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

Rhymes for shaman

See All Rhymes for shaman

Browse Nearby Words

shama millet
shaman
shamanic
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shaman.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shaman. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on shaman

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for shaman

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shaman

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