Idolatry

Noun

Definition: The worship or excessive admiration of idols or objects of worship.

Synonyms: Worship, Adoration, Devotion

Antonyms: Atheism, Secularism, Agnosticism

Examples:

The tribe engaged in idolatry, offering sacrifices to their idols.
His idolatry of wealth and power blinded him to the importance of compassion.

Mnemonics:

Idolatry can be considered as "idol worship," the excessive devotion to or reverence for idols.

Etymology:

Origin:

From the Middle English word "idolatre," which came from the Old French "idolatrie," and ultimately from the Late Latin "idololatria" and Greek "eidōlolatreia."

Historical Usage:

Idolatry has been a concept and practice in various religions throughout history, often associated with the worship of idols or false gods. It dates back to ancient civilizations and can be found in religious texts and cultural practices worldwide.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Idolatry of the mind"

Explanation:

A phrase used to describe the excessive or blind devotion to one's own ideas or beliefs, often without rational consideration or critical thinking.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Idolatry is always related to the worship of physical idols.

Explanation:

While idolatry often involves the worship of physical idols, it can also refer to the excessive admiration or devotion to people, ideas, or even material possessions, without necessarily involving actual idols.