Idolization: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when showing extreme admiration and love for someone or something, often to an unhealthy degree.

• Her idolization of the celebrity was so intense that she covered her entire room with posters of him

Used to describe profound reverence, love, and devotion, usually in a religious context or towards a deity.

• The villagers came to the temple to worship their gods every morning

Used to describe excessive praise or flattery, often in a way that seems insincere or exaggerated.

• The adulation from his fans seemed never-ending, but he knew not all of it was genuine

Used when someone admires a person to the point of viewing them as a hero, often with a sense of awe and respect.

• As a kid, he had a hero-worship for his firefighter father, always wanting to be just like him

This word is used when someone is admired or loved excessively, almost to the point of obsession. It often has a negative connotation because it implies a lack of critical thinking.

• Her idolization of the pop star made her lose touch with reality

Worship is intense admiration or love, often of a divine nature. It can be used in both religious contexts to describe the act of revering a deity or in everyday language to describe extreme admiration, though in the latter it can sometimes be negative.

• They gathered at the church for morning worship
• His worship of wealth ultimately led to his downfall

Veneration implies deep respect or awe, often related to someone's accomplishments, wisdom, or age. It is commonly used in religious and formal settings.

• The monk received great veneration for his years of service to the community

Adoration is a warm, deep love and respect for someone, often used in positive settings. It is more affectionate than idolization.

• The child's adoration for her mother was evident in her eyes