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guru (GOOR-oo, goo-ROO) noun

1. A personal spiritual teacher.

2. A teacher and guide in spiritual and philosophical matters. A trusted counselor and adviser; a mentor.

3. A recognized leader in a field. An acknowledged and influential advocate, as of a movement or idea.

[Hindi guru, from Sanskrit guruh, from guru-, heavy, venerable.]

"CSC Index puts on seminars at which outside gurus ponder issues such as creativity or the changing role of chief executives." That's what clients want: The big idea, The Economist, 22 Mar 1997.

What first comes to mind when you think of India?

While India has had more than its fair share of sages, mystics and spiritual teachers, in modern times it is software gurus for which that country is becoming known. The English language has borrowed generously from Hindi, India's national language, and from Sanskrit, an ancient classical language of India. This week's AWAD spotlights seven loanwords taken from these languages and focuses on terms that refer to venerated persons. -Anu

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