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idolatry

English → EnglishliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "idolatry": Idolatry refers to the extreme admiration, love, or reverence for something or someone, often to a d

What does "idolatry" mean?

Idolatry refers to the extreme admiration, love, or reverence for something or someone, often to a degree that is considered excessive or misplaced. Historically, it specifically described the religious practice of worshipping physical idols or statues as gods, but today it is frequently used metaphorically to describe a near-worshipful devotion to celebrities, money, or abstract concepts. The word carries a slightly critical or cautionary tone, implying that the object of the affection is unworthy of such high status. While it can describe genuine religious acts, it is most commonly encountered in modern English when criticizing "hero worship" or the superficial obsession people have with fame and material wealth.

"idolatry" in conversation

Discussing celebrity culture

I don't understand the level of idolatry surrounding that pop star.

I don't understand the level of idolatry surrounding that pop star.

It's wild. People treat her every word like it's divine scripture.

It's wild. People treat her every word like it's divine scripture.

Used here to criticize the obsessive behavior of fans.

A philosophical debate

Is the modern pursuit of wealth a form of idolatry?

Is the modern pursuit of wealth a form of idolatry?

Perhaps, if we sacrifice our values just to accumulate it.

Perhaps, if we sacrifice our values just to accumulate it.

Demonstrates the metaphorical use regarding abstract concepts like greed.

"idolatry" in a sentence

  1. The ancient tribe was accused of idolatry for bowing before the golden statue.

    The ancient tribe was accused of idolatry for bowing before the golden statue.

  2. His idolatry of the company's founder blinded him to the firm's failing business practices.

    His idolatry of the company's founder blinded him to the firm's failing business practices.

  3. Many critics argue that the digital age has replaced traditional faith with a shallow idolatry of technology and connectivity.

    Many critics argue that the digital age has replaced traditional faith with a shallow idolatry of technology and connectivity.

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