Deification: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in religious or mythological contexts when referring to the act of elevating someone to the status of a god.

• The ancient Greeks practiced the deification of their heroes.
• Her followers' adoration reached the point of deification.

Used specifically in theological discussions about the process of becoming god-like or being made divine, often found in Christian contexts.

• The concept of divinization is central to some Christian theologies.
• Early church teachings explored the idea of human divinization.

Appropriate for literary or formal writing to describe the highest point in the development of something or the elevation of someone to a divine status.

• The apotheosis of his career was winning the Nobel Prize.
• The film portrays her rise and eventual apotheosis.

Common in everyday language with a connotation of excessive admiration or love, often in a negative sense as it implies uncritical adoration.

• Teenagers' idolization of celebrities can sometimes lead to unhealthy behavior.
• His idolization of his coach was obvious in every game he played.

This word is often used in a serious context when someone is being elevated to the status of a deity or god-like figure. It is commonly used in religious or mythological discussions.

• The deification of ancient rulers was a common practice in many early civilizations.
• Some fans spoke of the singer in terms that bordered on deification.

This term is used to describe the act of admiring or loving someone to an excessive or unreasonable degree. It is often used when talking about fans and celebrities.

• The young girl's idolization of the pop star was evident from the posters covering her bedroom walls.
• Parents were concerned about the students' idolization of internet influencers.

Worship is generally used in a religious or spiritual context, referring to the act of showing reverence and devotion to a deity. However, it can also be used metaphorically to describe intense admiration for someone or something.

• The congregation gathered in the church for Sunday worship.
• He worships his mentor to the point where he mimics everything he does.

Adulation is typically used to describe excessive admiration or praise, often to the point of flattery. It has a somewhat negative connotation, implying insincerity or over-the-top praise.

• The politician was uncomfortable with the adulation he received from his supporters.
• Her adulation of the celebrity seemed excessive and a bit insincere.