Definition of idolatry
idolatries
1 : the worship of a physical object as a god
2 : immoderate attachment or devotion to something
Explore Merriam-Webster
Examples of idolatry in a Sentence
her idolatry of her favorite rock star is one step removed from stalking
Recent Examples of idolatry from the Web
-
In recent years, North Korean propaganda meant for foreign audiences has scaled back some of its idolatry.
-
The extremist group believes antiquities promote idolatry, though it is also believed to sell artifacts on the black market to fund its operations.
-
Simmons, in New York to promote this ultimate symbol of idolatry, suggests buying one now and setting it up as beer cooler until the time comes.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'idolatry.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of idolatry
Middle English ydolatrie, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin idolatria, alteration of Late Latin idololatria, from Greek eidōlolatreia, from eidōlon idol + -latreia -latry
Other Religion (Eastern and Other) Terms
Zen, antinomian, avatar, gnosticism, illuminati, ineffable, karma, koan, mantra
IDOLATRY Defined for English Language Learners
idolatry
playDefinition of idolatry for English Language Learners
-
: the worship of a picture or object as a god
Learn More about idolatry
-
See words that rhyme with idolatry Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for idolatry Spanish Central: Translation of idolatry Nglish: Translation of idolatry for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of idolatry for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about idolatry
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up idolatry? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!