as in worship
excessive admiration of or devotion to a person
fans of the team are well known for their idolatry of the quarterback
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Recent Examples of idolatry
The prophets were understood to have been sent by God to chastise the people of Israel for falling into idolatry and other evils and to urge repentance.
—
Joanne M. Pierce, The Conversation, 20 Jan. 2026
But the Turkish big man is also representative of a more meaningful trend, which was on display again this week, even before the Nuggets visited Houston — a recent proliferation of Jokic idolatry throughout the sport.
—Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 21 Nov. 2025
These all may be interpreted as acts of idolatry.
—Michael Isaacson, Sun Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2025
The horror movie, starring Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers, explores the inner sanctum of fame, idolatry, and the pursuit of excellence at any cost.
—Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 6 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for idolatry
Joanne M. Pierce, The Conversation, 20 Jan. 2026
But the Turkish big man is also representative of a more meaningful trend, which was on display again this week, even before the Nuggets visited Houston — a recent proliferation of Jokic idolatry throughout the sport.
—Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 21 Nov. 2025
These all may be interpreted as acts of idolatry.
—Michael Isaacson, Sun Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2025
The horror movie, starring Marlon Wayans and Tyriq Withers, explores the inner sanctum of fame, idolatry, and the pursuit of excellence at any cost.
—Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 6 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for idolatry
Recent Examples of Synonyms for idolatry
Noun
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There’ll be exhibits on worship, on music, on education, on fellowship, on mission.—
Myrna Petlicki,
Chicago Tribune,
30 Apr. 2026
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The site has held a place of worship since 1647 and has been destroyed and rebuilt twice — first by cannon fire during the English Conquest of 1759, then by a fire in 1922.—
Hanna Wickes,
Charlotte Observer,
30 Apr. 2026
Noun
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His adoration, here as in all things natural, is infectious, although the birds themselves care not a whit for him, and isn’t that part of the wonder, the fun?—
Ian Crouch,
New Yorker,
8 May 2026
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The beloved radio broadcaster, who died at age 87 earlier in the day, was the subject of praise, reflection and adoration before the Yankees beat the Orioles, 12-1, and secured a four-game series sweep.—
Gary Phillips,
New York Daily News,
4 May 2026
Noun
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By the nail holes above and beside the worshiping altar, the household hung garlands.—
Maria Mocerino,
Interesting Engineering,
14 Feb. 2026
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Afternoons are made for fresh piña coladas, languid sun worshipping, and offshore adventures on motorboats fully stocked with snorkels, fins, and local beer.—
Rosalyn Wikeley,
Condé Nast Traveler,
22 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Idolatry.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/idolatry. Accessed 11 May. 2026.
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