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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The search would have covered hundreds of homes, nearly 80 hotels, numerous places of worship and at least two hospitals.—
Bart Jansen,
USA Today,
26 Apr. 2026
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While the vandalism in Oak Park may have been sparked by mental health issues, Metro Detroit has seen multiple Jewish places of worship being vandalized.—
Terell Bailey,
CBS News,
25 Apr. 2026
Noun
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It's called assassination by adoration.—
Brendan Le,
PEOPLE,
9 Apr. 2026
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Their adoration, combined with spending power, has created serious commercial opportunity for labels and brands that know how to tap in.—
Lucy Maguire,
Vogue,
8 Apr. 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 30 Apr. 2026.
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