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Deify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deify

[ˈdiː.ɪ.faɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious context

To deify means to worship or regard someone or something as a god. It is often used in religious contexts where a person or entity is elevated to divine status. This term can also imply the glorification of someone in a manner typical of deities.

Synonyms

exalt, idolize, worship.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians would deify their pharaohs after death.
  • Some cultures tend to deify their historical leaders.
  • The movie attempted to deify the protagonist, portraying him as a savior.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'deify'

The word 'deify' originates from the Latin 'deificare', which means 'to make a god of'. It is formed from the prefix 'de-' meaning 'from' or 'down from' and 'facere', meaning 'to make or do'. The term entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century. Since then, it has been used primarily in theological discussions and literary works to describe the act of elevating a person or figure to the status of a deity, often reflecting cultural values associated with divinity and worship.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,994, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.