Definition
Idolatry refers to the worship of idols or the excessive admiration or love for something or someone, usually to the point of obsession.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Noun
Synonyms
Worship, veneration, adoration, devotion, idolization
Antonyms
Disapproval, disdain, scorn, contempt
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | idolatry, idolaters, idolatries, idolater |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | idolatrous |
| Adverb | idolatrously |
Example Sentences
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Many ancient civilizations practiced some form of idolatry, worshipping statues or other objects they believed to have divine powers.
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He showed an unhealthy level of idolatry towards his favorite actor, collecting every magazine, poster, and DVD that featured the star.
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Some people view the extreme focus on material possessions as a form of idolatry, valuing money and status over all else.
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The rise of social media has given birth to a new form of idolatry, where individuals become obsessed with the lives and opinions of influencers and celebrities.
Usage
The word “idolatry” is rooted in the concept of idol worship, which is the act of attributing divine power or status to a physical object. The term has since evolved to encompass a broader definition, which includes the excessive admiration or love for something or someone. Idolatry can take many forms, from the traditional religious practices of worshipping statues to the more modern obsession with celebrities and material possessions.
In a religious context, idolatry is often associated with the worship of false gods and is viewed as a sin in many belief systems. It is seen as a form of spiritual weakness, a failure to recognize the true source of one’s strength and power. However, in secular contexts, the term is often used to describe the excessive love or admiration for a person, place, or thing. This can be anything from a harmless hobby to an all-consuming obsession.
Idolatry is often used in a negative context, as it is seen as a form of misplaced priorities or devotion. It is associated with blind worship, where individuals fail to see the flaws or shortcomings of the object of their devotion. However, it can also be used in a positive sense, to describe a deep and abiding love for something or someone that is well-deserved. In such cases, it is often used in a poetic or metaphorical sense, to convey the depth of one’s feelings.
The word “idolatry” can be modified with various prefixes and suffixes to alter its meaning. For example, the prefix “anti-” can be added to create the word “anti-idolatry,” which refers to a stance against the worship of idols or excessive admiration of anything or anyone. The suffix “-ic” can be added to create “idolatric,” which describes something related to or characteristic of idolatry. Another related term is “idolize,” which is a verb that means to admire or love someone or something excessively.