follower / retainer
der Gefolgsmann, die Gefolgsleute
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follower
An adherent or loyal supporter of an influential person, political group, or movement.
Der Diktator ließ sich von seinen Gefolgsleuten bis zum Ende unterstützen.
The dictator had his followers support him to the very end.
retainer
A member of a ruler’s or nobleman’s retinue, especially in the Middle Ages. The term often refers to a vassal or armed servant.
Der Ritter zog mit mehreren Gefolgsleuten in den Krieg.
The knight went to war with several retainers.
| gender | masculine der |
|---|---|
| plural | die Gefolgsleute |
| genitive | des Gefolgsmanns |
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | der Gefolgsmann | die Gefolgsleute die Gefolgsmänner |
| accusative | den Gefolgsmann | die Gefolgsleute die Gefolgsmänner |
| dative | dem Gefolgsmann | den Gefolgsleuten den Gefolgsmännern |
| genitive | des Gefolgsmanns des Gefolgsmannes | der Gefolgsleute der Gefolgsmänner |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
'Gefolgsmann' is used mainly in historical, political, or journalistic texts. Depending on the context, the word can have a critical connotation, especially when the person being supported acts in an authoritarian way.
Der Politiker umgab sich mit loyalen Gefolgsmännern, die jede Entscheidung verteidigten.
The politician surrounded himself with loyal followers who defended every decision.
In its political sense, 'Gefolgsmann' often appears in expressions such as 'treuer Gefolgsmann' (loyal follower), 'enger Gefolgsmann' (close follower), or 'loyaler Gefolgsmann' (loyal follower). It is also often stated whose follower someone is.
Der Minister galt lange als treuer Gefolgsmann des Parteivorsitzenden.
The minister was long regarded as the party leader’s loyal follower.
The historical meaning can often be recognized from words such as 'Ritter' (knight), 'Herrscher' (ruler), 'Burg' (castle), 'Hof' (court), or 'Krieg' (war). In such contexts, 'Gefolgsmann' usually refers to someone who personally serves a ruler or nobleman.
Der junge Gefolgsmann begleitete seinen Ritter zur Burg des Königs.
The young retainer accompanied his knight to the king’s castle.
