adoration

noun

ad·​o·​ra·​tion ˌa-də-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce adoration (audio)
Synonyms of adorationnext
: the act of adoring : the state of being adored

Examples of adoration in a Sentence

They looked at the baby in adoration. The doctor has earned the adoration of his patients.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adell soaked in every moment of the fans’ adoration throughout the night, showing his excitement with each catch. Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 5 Apr. 2026 The two bonded over Crane’s adoration of the 1930s fictional detective Nero Wolfe and the formative subject of their fathers. Annie Vainshtein, San Francisco Chronicle, 3 Apr. 2026 But the highlight of the ceremony is the adoration of the cross, which in many cases is held up near the altar as the faithful line up to kiss it or touch it in reverence. ABC News, 1 Apr. 2026 Good Friday commemorates Jesus’ crucifixion with solemn services, ancient liturgical traditions like adoration of the cross, marking a central moment in Christian faith. Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adoration

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Latin adōrātiōn-, adōrātiō, from adōrāre "to venerate, adore" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adoration was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Adoration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adoration. Accessed 13 Apr. 2026.

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