shaman

noun sha·man \ˈshä-mən, ˈshā- also shə-ˈmän\

: someone who is believed in some cultures to be able to use magic to cure people who are sick, to control future events, etc.

plural shamans

Full Definition of SHAMAN

: a priest or priestess who uses magic for the purpose of curing the sick, divining the hidden, and controlling events

: one who resembles a shaman; especially : high priest 3

— sha·man·ic \shə-ˈma-nik, -ˈmä-\ adjective

See shaman defined for English-language learners

ultimately from Evenki (Tungusic language of Siberia) šamān

First Known Use: 1698

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