guru

Everyday

1. (religion) In Hinduism and Sikhism, a guru is a holy teacher and guide; Sikhs honour ten human Gurus and their holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib. tree →
2. (informal) A guru is an expert that others go to for advice, like "a computer guru" or "a fitness guru". tree →

In the lessons

In RE, pupils learn that Guru Nanak founded Sikhism, and Sikhs pray in a gurdwara. In everyday talk the word is used lightly for any clever helper: "Ask Mia, she's our maths guru." Online "gurus" sometimes sell advice that is not true, so pupils should check facts. Phrases: a spiritual guru, Guru Nanak, tech guru, style guru.

Examples

• Guru Nanak was the first Sikh Guru. tree →
• The Guru Granth Sahib is treated with great respect. tree →
• My uncle is a computer guru who fixes everything. tree →
• The class's spelling guru helped me with "necessary". tree →
• The fitness guru on the video said to drink lots of water. tree →
• Some internet gurus give bad advice, so check what they say. tree →

Note

Countable; plural gurus. Capital G in Sikh titles ("Guru Nanak"). Say "GOO-roo". The informal sense can be a little mocking.