Stellify

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To transform an object or concept into something star-like or celestial in essence; to perceive someone or something as outstandingly remarkable or extraordinary; to raise an idea or individual to a high level of importance or admiration, similar to that of a star
2. To change something into a form resembling a star in shape or nature ; to exalt or acclaim someone as outstanding or extraordinary
3. To cause an object to take on star-like qualities or appearance ; to elevate a person or idea to a level of great fame or admiration

Etymology: "Stellify" is a Latin-based coinage built from "stella," the Latin word for "star," and "facere," meaning "to make." The Latin verb "stellificare" was formed by joining these, giving the sense "to make into a star." English took the word from Middle French "stellifier," and it first appeared in Middle English as "stellifien," where it meant both "to make into a star" and "to glorify or deify." That second sense, raising someone to the status of a god, is the one that shaped the word's later use. The word thus began as a literal, almost cosmic act of transformation, turning a mortal or an object into a heavenly body. Its religious meaning of glorification carried over into the broader idea of elevating a person or idea to great fame or admiration.