What does paraclete mean?
A paraclete is someone who serves as an advocate, intercessor, or source of comfort for another person. In its best-known religious use, the term denotes the Holy Spirit, particularly through the Christian tradition's language of the Paraclete as the divine comforter, helper, and advocate. The word can also be used more generally for a person who pleads on someone else's behalf or supports them during difficulty. Its modern occurrence is mostly limited to formal theological writing, although it occasionally appears in elevated literary or historical prose. The term is notable because it brings together several senses of support: legal advocacy, active intercession, and emotional or spiritual consolation. Its Greek origin likewise emphasizes the idea of calling someone to stand beside another, which explains why it can suggest both practical assistance and the provision of comfort.
nounA paraclete is an advocate, intercessor, or comforter, especially the Holy Spirit as understood in Christian theology. The word is chiefly formal and religious in modern English.
- In Christian theology, the Holy Spirit as the divine comforter, advocate, and helper.
- More generally, a person who pleads or intercedes on behalf of another.
"The prayer invoked the paraclete to strengthen those who were suffering."
"The sermon described the Paraclete as the source of consolation and guidance."
"She acted as a paraclete for the family during the inquiry."
The plural is rare and most likely to appear in general rather than specialized theological prose.
"The account refers to several paracletes who intercede for the community."
Paraclete entered English from Greek, where it means “advocate”—one called to stand beside another and speak in that person's support.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paraclete come from?
The English word comes from Greek paraklētos, meaning “advocate” or “one called to help,” formed from parakaleō, “to call to one's side.” Greek also used the term in the Septuagint and the New Testament, especially for the Holy Spirit as helper, comforter, and advocate. It entered English through late Latin and French while retaining its strongly religious associations.
How paraclete is actually used
The word is formal, uncommon, and most familiar in theological writing. “Paraclete” is often capitalized when used as a title for the Holy Spirit.
Easily confused with paraclete
A parley is a conversation, often a negotiation, whereas a paraclete is a person who advocates or intercedes for someone.