Worshipful: meaning, definitions and examples

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worshipful

 

[ˈwərʃɪpfʊl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

formal

Showing or expressing great respect and admiration; reverent.

Synonyms

adulatory, respectful, reverential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
worshipful

Used to describe a feeling or expression of deep respect, admiration, or adoration, often in a religious context. It conveys a sense of honoring someone or something as sacred or highly significant.

  • The congregation gathered for a worshipful ceremony in the ancient church.
  • Her voice had a worshipful tone when she spoke of her mentor.
respectful

Used to describe a manner of showing or expressing polite regard or consideration towards someone or something.

  • Children are taught to be respectful towards their elders.
  • Her respectful attitude made a great impression on her new colleagues.
adulatory

Used to describe praise or admiration that is excessive and often not sincere, potentially having a negative connotation as it can imply flattery or sycophancy.

  • The actor was surrounded by an adulatory crowd at the premiere.
  • His speech was filled with adulatory comments that seemed disingenuous.
reverential

Used to describe a feeling or expression of deep respect tinged with awe, often towards someone or something considered sacred or highly significant.

  • He spoke of his mother's memory in a reverential tone.
  • The visitors walked through the ancient temple with reverential silence.

Examples of usage

  • He bowed his head in a worshipful manner before the altar.
  • She gazed at the painting with a worshipful expression on her face.
Context #2 | Adjective

archaic

Deserving worship or adoration; divine.

Synonyms

divine, godly, sacred.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
worshipful

This word is used to show deep respect or admiration for someone or something, often in a formal way.

  • The worshipful knight bowed before the queen.
  • He gave a worshipful glance at the monument.
divine

This word is used when talking about something related to a deity or god, or something extremely good or beautiful.

  • The choir's performance was simply divine.
  • She felt a divine presence in the ancient temple.
godly

Use this word to describe someone who is devoutly religious or showing deep religious devotion.

  • He lived a godly life, always helping those in need.
  • Her godly principles guided her actions.
sacred

This word is often used to describe something that is considered holy, special, and worthy of respect, usually in a religious or cultural context.

  • The ceremony took place on sacred ground.
  • This book is considered sacred in many cultures.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Greeks believed in worshipful deities.
  • The people regarded the king as a worshipful figure.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from 'worship', which means to show love or respect, combined with 'full', suggesting a heart filled with admiration.
  • It has been used since the 15th century, deriving from old forms that connected to honor and reverence.

Religion

  • In many religious contexts, worshipful attitudes are essential during ceremonies, reflecting deep reverence for deities.
  • Practices such as prayer, singing, and rituals are often considered worshipful, aiming to connect believers with the divine.

Literature

  • Worshipful characters often populate poetry and novels as symbols of loyalty or adoration, embodying themes of devotion.
  • Classic literature features worshipful figures, illustrating the conflict between genuine admiration and idolization.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people who express worshipful feelings can experience greater contentment and connection in relationships.
  • A worshipful mindset can enhance gratitude, helping individuals appreciate the positive traits of others more deeply.

Pop Culture

  • In modern media, worshipful portrayals often highlight celebrity culture, where fans express adoration for their favorite stars.
  • Films and music frequently explore worshipful themes, examining the fine line between idolization and real human connection.

Translations

Translations of the word "worshipful" in other languages:

🇵🇹 venerável

🇮🇳 पूजनीय

🇩🇪 ehrwürdig

🇮🇩 terhormat

🇺🇦 шанований

🇵🇱 czcigodny

🇯🇵 尊敬すべき

🇫🇷 vénérable

🇪🇸 venerable

🇹🇷 saygıdeğer

🇰🇷 존경할 만한

🇸🇦 مبجل

🇨🇿 ctihodný

🇸🇰 ctihodný

🇨🇳 值得崇敬的

🇸🇮 častitljiv

🇮🇸 virðulegur

🇰🇿 құрметті

🇬🇪 დასაფასებელი

🇦🇿 hörmətli

🇲🇽 venerable

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,209, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.