Idolise

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To regard someone with great admiration and devotion | To worship or revere a person as if they were a deity or an icon | To idealize someone to the extent of placing them on a pedestal and showing excessive reverence
2. To hold someone in high esteem and deep affection | To treat an individual as a figure of veneration or devotion | To admire someone to an unrealistic degree, almost as if they are flawless or divine
3. To admire someone profoundly and treat them as an object of reverence | To regard an individual with excessive affection and devotion akin to worship | To exalt a person to an unrealistic status as if they possess divine qualities

Etymology: The term "idolise" emerged in the English language in the late 19th century, with its earliest recorded usage traced back to around 1830. It is derived from the noun "idol," which itself can be traced back to the Greek word "eidolon," meaning "image" or "phantom." The journey from the Greek to its current form in English involved a winding path through Latin and Old French. In Latin, "idolum" referred to a "false image," and the Old French adopted this as "idole." The transformation of "idol" into "idolise" showcases a fascinating shift from a physical object to the adulation of a person or concept. Initially, "idol" referred to a tangible representation, often of a deity, that commanded reverence and worship. Over time, the meaning expanded to encompass anything or anyone that is greatly admired or revered. The act of idolising someone is not merely about admiration; it implies a deep, almost worshipful devotion that elevates an individual to a status akin to that of a deity. By the time "idolise" took root in English, it had begun to take on a more abstract connotation, focusing less on the physical representations and more on the emotional and psychological aspects of admiration. This evolution mirrors cultural shifts in society, where figures in entertainment, sports, and politics often become the objects of such fervent adoration that they are metaphorically placed upon pedestals. Interestingly, the word also highlights the intersection of language and culture, as the notion of idolisation has been a recurring theme throughout history, from ancient civilizations venerating their gods to modern celebrities being idolised by fans. As such, it reflects not only linguistic evolution but also societal values and norms regarding admiration and reverence.

Synonyms: worship, revere, admire

Antonyms: despise, disdain