Lionize
Verb
Definition: To treat someone with great admiration or as a celebrity.
Synonyms: Idolize, Glorify, Adulate
Antonyms: Criticize, Vilify, Condemn
- The media tends to lionize successful athletes.
- The fans gathered to lionize their favorite singer at the concert.
- Think of the word "lion" in lionize as representing a powerful figure being admired and celebrated.
Etymology:
The term "lionize" comes from the noun "lion" which refers to the king of the jungle, symbolizing power and majesty. It originated in the early 19th century.
Historical Usage:The term has been widely used to describe the phenomenon of elevating individuals to an exalted status in society.
Related Idioms:
"Lionize someone to death"
Explanation:This phrase is used to describe the excessive and exaggerated adoration or worship of someone, often to the point of harming the person's reputation or well-being.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "lionize" with "lyonize".
Explanation:"Lyonize" is not a valid word and may result from a spelling mistake or confusion with a similar sounding word. The correct term is "lionize" which carries the meaning of idolizing or glorifying someone.