mentor

UK: ˈmɛntɔː | US: ˈmɛnˌtɔr

Definition
  1. n. an experienced and trusted advisor or guide

  2. vt. to advise or train someone, especially in a professional or educational context

Structure
ment <mind>or <agent suffix>ment <mind>or <agent suffix>
Etymology

mentor = ment<mind> + or<agent suffix>

  • ment<mind>: Derived from Greek mentos (mind, thought), via Latin mentor (adviser).
  • or<agent suffix>: A suffix denoting a person who performs a specific action (e.g., "actor," "director").

Etymology Origin:
The word "mentor" traces back to Homer's Odyssey, where Mentor was the name of a wise and trusted counselor to Odysseus. Over time, the name evolved into a common noun representing a guiding figure. The morpheme ment reflects the intellectual aspect of guidance, while or signifies the role of the advisor.

Examples
  1. She became a mentor to young entrepreneurs in her community.

  2. The program pairs students with industry mentors for career guidance.

  3. He mentored dozens of researchers during his academic career.

  4. A good mentor provides both technical advice and emotional support.

  5. The company encourages senior employees to mentor new hires.