Idolizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Idolizing can create a sense of belonging, especially among fans of celebrities, as it fosters community and shared interests.
• It can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations, where people may project their hopes onto an idol, ignoring their flaws.
• Psychologists suggest that idolizing figures can influence personal identity development, particularly during adolescence.

Pop Culture

• The phenomenon of idolizing can be seen in fan culture, where people celebrate music stars, actors, and athletes with intense devotion.
• In many cultures, young fans often form 'fan clubs' to express admiration and connect over shared interests.
• 'Idol' is also a title used in various talent shows, emphasizing the significant impact of media on public admiration.

Literature

• Many literary works explore the theme of idolization, often critiquing how it's used to portray flaws in human perception and society's values.
• The concept of a tragic hero in literature often involves idolizing a character whose downfall teaches a moral lesson about imperfection.
• Novels frequently depict the consequences of idolizing figures, showcasing how it can lead to disillusionment when reality contrasts sharply with idealization.

Religion

• Idolizing can have religious connotations, particularly in monotheistic faiths where worship is directed solely towards a deity, making other idols forbidden.
• In various religions, the act of idolization can be a point of debate, balancing personal veneration against collective teachings.
• Historically, idol worship has been both condemned and embraced in different cultures, shaping how human beings relate to the sacred.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'idolize' comes from the Latin word 'idolum,' meaning 'image' or 'likeness.'
• It entered the English language in the early 18th century, influenced by the idea of worshipping idols in religion.
• Originally, it referred to the act of worshipping false gods, but now it carries a more personal admiration.

The word 'idolizing' comes from the noun 'idol,' which has its roots in the Middle English term 'idole,' from Old French 'idole,' which was derived from the Latin 'idolum,' meaning 'an image or representation.' This Latin term further originates from the Greek word 'eidolon,' which means 'form, shape, or ghost.' The transition of the term into English was influenced by various religious and cultural perspectives related to images of deities and figures of worship. Over time, 'idol' evolved to represent not only religious figures but also people admired for their skills or attributes, leading to the development of 'idolizing' as a verb by adding the suffix '-ize,' which means to make or to become. Thus, 'idolizing' encapsulates the action of adoration or extreme admiration toward someone or something, signifying a change from merely recognizing value to actively elevating that value in a person's life.

Ranking #39,076, 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.

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• 39073 habituating
• 39074 nitpicking
• 39075 gaga
• 39076 idolizing
• 39077 hurler
• 39078 chickened
• 39079 dement
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