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Polytheist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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polytheist

poly-the-ist

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

belief system

A polytheist is a person who believes in multiple deities or gods, often within the context of a particular religion or cultural tradition. This belief system often includes the worship of gods that may represent various aspects of life, nature, or human experience.

Synonyms

henotheist, multitheist.

Examples of usage

  • Many ancient civilizations were polytheist, worshiping gods like Zeus and Ra.
  • Polytheist traditions can be found in Hinduism, where numerous gods and goddesses are revered.
  • He identified as a polytheist, honoring several deities in his spiritual practices.

Translations

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Quick facts about “polytheist”

Polytheist is a 3-syllable noun (poly-the-ist). On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 2 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #39,931 among the most common English words.

Origin of 'polytheist'

The term 'polytheist' originates from the Greek words 'poly' meaning 'many' and 'theos' meaning 'god'. It is used to describe religious beliefs that involve the worship of more than one deity, a practice that has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history. Polytheism contrasts with monotheism, the belief in a single deity. Historical polytheism can be observed in ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, where each god had distinct roles, attributes, and domains. As societies evolved, many polytheistic religions underwent transformations, some merging with or giving rise to monotheistic faiths. The term has been widely discussed in religious studies to highlight various belief systems and the human quest to understand the divine.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,931, 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.