epigon

Example:During the Renaissance, many artists served as imitators to perfect the techniques of the masters before them.

Definition:A person who copies or mimics the work or style of another, often unoriginal or derivative in nature.

Example:In the academic world, some students may become followers of a particular theory, not contributing new ideas of their own.

Definition:A person who adopts the beliefs, practices, or ideas of someone or something, often seen as adhering to the status quo rather than innovating.

Example:The movement's early leaders saw the later followers as being increasingly epigonal and less innovative with time.

Definition:A person or group that adheres to the principles or practices of a religious, political, or artistic movement, often seen as less original than the founders of the movement.