Synonyms of idolnext
1
: an object of extreme devotion
a movie idol
also : ideal sense 2
2
: a representation or symbol of an object of worship
broadly : a false god
3
a
: a likeness of something
b
obsolete : pretender, impostor
4
: a false conception : fallacy
5
: a form or appearance visible but without substance
… an enchanted phantom, a lifeless idolPercy Bysshe Shelley

Examples of idol in a Sentence

an actor who is the idol of millions a movie star whose portrayal of a comic book superhero in a blockbuster series has made him the idol of millions
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.
Herstory is made Things started off a bit rough for the latest victim of the Knowledge is Power curse, as Sophi regretted not stealing Rizo’s idol to fast-pass herself to the final four. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 18 Dec. 2025 To mark its celebratory season, Survivor let fans vote on several aspects of the game, from the final challenges to hidden immunity idols. Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 18 Dec. 2025 For the first time ever, newcomers, longtime viewers and anyone who loves a good challenge will have the chance to strategize, uncover clues, solve riddles and track down authentic immunity idols hidden in their state. Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 17 Dec. 2025 Speaking at a virtual CNBC Workforce Executive Council Town Hall last week, Brooks told chief human resources officers and other talent leaders that going after idols such as money, power, pleasure and fame will not deliver lasting happiness. Susan Caminiti, CNBC, 16 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for idol

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French idle, from Late Latin idolum, from Greek eidōlon image, idol; akin to Greek eidos form — more at idyll

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of idol was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Idol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idol. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

idol

noun
1
: an image worshipped as a god
2
: a greatly loved and admired person or thing

More from Merriam-Webster on idol

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