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Glorify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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glorify

[ˈɡlɔːrɪfaɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in religion

To praise or worship a higher power; to honor or exalt a deity.

Synonyms

honor, praise, worship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glorify

Typically used to describe the act of praising someone or something excessively, often to the point of exaggeration. Often highlights making something seem better or more important than it actually is.

  • The movie tended to glorify the life of the protagonist, ignoring the less glamorous aspects.
  • It's dangerous to glorify violence in video games.
praise

Commonly used to express approval or admiration, especially in a context where one appreciates someone's actions or qualities.

  • The teacher praised the student for her hard work and dedication.
  • He was praised by his peers for his innovative contributions.
worship

This word is often used in religious contexts to describe the act of showing reverence and adoration for a deity or spiritual figure.

  • Every Sunday, they gather at the church to worship.
  • In many cultures, people worship ancestors and believe in their guidance.
honor

Used in contexts where one is showing deep respect or high regard for someone based on their achievements or qualities. Often associated with formal ceremonies.

  • We gathered to honor the veterans who served our country.
  • She was honored with an award for her dedication to teaching.

Examples of usage

  • He always takes time to glorify God in his prayers.
  • The ceremony was designed to glorify the spirits of the ancestors.
  • The purpose of the festival is to glorify the goddess of harvest.
Context #2 | Verb

in a positive light

To make something or someone appear more impressive or worthy of admiration.

Synonyms

celebrate, exalt, idealize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
glorify

Use when you want to describe excessive or undue praise, which can sometimes have a negative connotation. It often suggests embellishment beyond what is reasonable.

  • The media tends to glorify celebrities
  • The film glorified the life of the outlaw
exalt

Choose this word for situations where you want to show high respect or honor, often in a spiritual or moral context.

  • The sermon exalted the virtues of charity and compassion
  • He was exalted to a position of great honor
idealize

This word fits scenarios where you are making something or someone seem perfect, often overlooking flaws. There can be a slight negative aspect, as it suggests a lack of realism.

  • It's easy to idealize your childhood, forgetting the tough times
  • She tends to idealize her favorite movie stars
celebrate

This word is appropriate for marking joyous occasions or recognizing achievements. It carries a positive and happy connotation.

  • They celebrated their anniversary with a big party
  • The community gathered to celebrate the festival

Examples of usage

  • The artist's paintings glorify the beauty of nature.
  • The movie glorifies the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers.
  • Some people argue that media glorifies violence.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In many epic poems, heroes are glorified for their bravery and noble deeds, setting them apart from ordinary people.
  • Literature often explores the theme of glorifying nature, showing how landscapes can be depicted as magnificent and awe-inspiring.
  • Authors sometimes critique societies for glorifying war or violence, questioning the notion of heroism in such contexts.

Pop Culture

  • Many songs and movies glorify heroes and celebrities, celebrating their achievements and contributions to culture.
  • Social media influences how we glorify ordinary moments, turning everyday activities into something to celebrate and share.
  • Films often dramatize events to glorify historical figures, portraying them as larger than life for the audience's admiration.

Psychology

  • Glorifying certain traits or behaviors can lead to unrealistic expectations in relationships and society.
  • This can create a phenomenon called the 'halo effect,' where people assume that those who are glorified possess other positive traits.
  • Psychologists warn against glorifying past eras, as it can overshadow the challenges and realities faced during those times.

Religion

  • In religious practices, glorifying deities often involves rituals, prayers, and songs aimed at showcasing their greatness.
  • Many scriptures emphasize the importance of glorifying God as a central tenet of faith and worship.
  • This concept often ties into themes of gratitude and reverence, encouraging a positive connection between believers and the divine.

Origin of 'glorify'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'glorify' comes from the Latin 'glorificare,' which means to give glory.
  • It has been used in English since the late 14th century, primarily in religious contexts to praise God.
  • Related words include 'glory,' which refers to great beauty or worth, and 'glorious,' meaning full of glory.

The word 'glorify' has its roots in the Latin word 'glorificare', which means 'to praise or honor'. Over time, the word evolved in English to encompass not only religious connotations but also the idea of making something or someone appear more impressive. The concept of glorification has been prevalent in various cultures and belief systems throughout history, often associated with rituals, ceremonies, and artistic expressions.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,149, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.