Witchdoctor
noun
A person, often in some cultures, who is believed to have magical powers and can heal illness or bring good luck.
Many people in the village turn to the witchdoctor for help when they are ill.
Often appears as...
- witchdoctor's remedies
- consult a witchdoctor
Usage tips
Neutral
traditional healer, spiritual guide, folk medicine
noun
A person, often in some cultures, who is believed to have magical powers and can heal illness or bring good luck.
Many people in the village turn to the witchdoctor for help when they are ill.
Often appears as...
- witchdoctor's remedies
- consult a witchdoctor
Usage tips
Neutral
traditional healer, spiritual guide, folk medicine
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Insight
Understanding the role of a witchdoctor can vary significantly across cultures. In some, they are respected figures, while in others, they may be viewed with skepticism.
In Nigeria, for instance, witchdoctors are often integral to local beliefs and practices.
Pro Tip 2/3Contextual Use
When using this term, be aware of its potential to offend if misapplied or used insensitively, particularly in discussion with someone from a culture where traditional healers are prominent.
Referring to traditional healers as 'witchdoctors' in a derogatory manner can diminish their cultural significance.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Characterization
Informally, calling someone a witchdoctor might imply that they are using dubious methods to gain trust or credibility.
He pretends to be a health expert, but I wouldn't call him more than a witchdoctor.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Insight
Understanding the role of a witchdoctor can vary significantly across cultures. In some, they are respected figures, while in others, they may be viewed with skepticism.
In Nigeria, for instance, witchdoctors are often integral to local beliefs and practices.
Pro Tip 2/3Contextual Use
When using this term, be aware of its potential to offend if misapplied or used insensitively, particularly in discussion with someone from a culture where traditional healers are prominent.
Referring to traditional healers as 'witchdoctors' in a derogatory manner can diminish their cultural significance.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Characterization
Informally, calling someone a witchdoctor might imply that they are using dubious methods to gain trust or credibility.
He pretends to be a health expert, but I wouldn't call him more than a witchdoctor.
Pro Tip 1/3Cultural Insight
Understanding the role of a witchdoctor can vary significantly across cultures. In some, they are respected figures, while in others, they may be viewed with skepticism.
In Nigeria, for instance, witchdoctors are often integral to local beliefs and practices.
Pro Tip 2/3Contextual Use
When using this term, be aware of its potential to offend if misapplied or used insensitively, particularly in discussion with someone from a culture where traditional healers are prominent.
Referring to traditional healers as 'witchdoctors' in a derogatory manner can diminish their cultural significance.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Characterization
Informally, calling someone a witchdoctor might imply that they are using dubious methods to gain trust or credibility.
He pretends to be a health expert, but I wouldn't call him more than a witchdoctor.
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