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/əˈpɑːsəl/
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/əˈpɑːsəl/
🇬🇧
/əˈpɑː.səl/
🇬🇧
/əˈpɑː.səl/
Plural
apostles
An apostle is originally a person specifically chosen and sent out by Jesus Christ to spread his teachings — especially one of the Twelve. Today, it can also refer more broadly to a passionate, pioneering advocate or founder of a cause, movement, or belief system — someone who doesn’t just believe but actively commissions and inspires others.
Paul, though not one of the original Twelve, became the most influential apostle to the Gentiles.
She is widely regarded as the apostle of sustainable fashion for her groundbreaking ethical brand.
The church honors Saint Peter as its first apostle and foundational leader.
In early Christianity, apostles traveled across the Roman Empire to establish new communities of believers.
He called himself an apostle of innovation, urging companies to abandon outdated business models.
apo-
Comes from Ancient Greek 'apo-' (ἀπό), meaning 'away from', 'off', or 'separate'. It conveys the idea of departure, removal, or being sent forth. Examples include apostle (one sent away), apostasy (a turning away from faith), apogee (point farthest from Earth), and apothecary (originally one who stores things away).
stel-
Comes from Ancient Greek 'stellein' (στέλλειν), meaning 'to place', 'to set', 'to arrange', or 'to send'. In compound form, it often means 'to send forth' — especially in a formal or commissioned role. Combined with 'apo-', 'apostolos' literally means 'one who is sent away (on a mission)'. Examples include apostle, epistle (a letter sent forth), and stela (an upright stone slab placed as a marker or memorial).