Zealotry: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฅ
zealotry
[หzษlษtri ]
Definition
extreme devotion
Zealotry is the excessive and fanatical devotion to a cause or belief, often to the point of intolerance towards those who do not share the same beliefs. It is characterized by uncompromising and often aggressive behavior in the pursuit of the cause.
Synonyms
extremism, fanaticism, intolerance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| zealotry |
Zealotry is often used to describe extreme and passionate devotion to a cause, usually in a way that is viewed as uncompromising or obsessive.
|
| fanaticism |
Fanaticism refers to intense, irrational enthusiasm for a particular activity, cause, or belief. This word often has a negative connotation.
|
| extremism |
Extremism is typically used in political or social contexts to refer to actions or ideologies that are far outside the accepted norms, often involving radical changes or actions.
|
| intolerance |
Intolerance is used to describe an unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behaviors that differ from one's own, often resulting in unfair or prejudiced treatment.
|
Examples of usage
- His zealotry for the political party blinded him to any opposing viewpoints.
- The zealotry of the religious group led to conflicts with other communities.
- She was known for her zealotry in advocating for animal rights.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'zelos,' meaning 'eager rivalry or enthusiasm.'
- It entered the English language in the early 17th century, reflecting intense religious and political fervor.
- Originally used in a positive sense, it later took on a negative connotation related to excessive fervor.
History
- Zealotry has played significant roles in various historical movements, notably during the Spanish Inquisition.
- During the Roman Empire, certain groups exhibited zealotry in religious contexts, often leading to violent confrontations.
- In contemporary contexts, zealotry has been used to describe extremist behavior in political and religious spheres.
Psychology
- Research suggests that extreme commitment to beliefs can lead to cognitive dissonance, where one refuses to accept conflicting information.
- Studies indicate that emotional investment in ideologies can create strong group identities, leading to reduced tolerance for dissent.
- Zealotry is often analyzed in terms of social influence, where groups can amplify extreme views among their members.
Literature
- Many literary works explore themes of zealotry, depicting characters whose extreme beliefs lead to tragic outcomes, like in 'The Crucible.'
- Authors often use zealotry to critique societal norms, as seen in Orwell's '1984,' highlighting dangers of unquestioned loyalty.
- The theme of zealotry is prevalent in religious texts, illustrating both its unifying and divisive effects on communities.
Pop Culture
- Hollywood frequently portrays zealotry in films, often depicting characters as either heroes or villains driven by strong beliefs.
- In video games, zealotry might manifest in antagonistic characters whose extreme devotion to their causes drives major conflicts.
- Television series sometimes explore zealotry through complex characters, reflecting real-world divisions over beliefs and ideologies.
Translations
Translations of the word "zealotry" in other languages:
๐ต๐น fanatismo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคเฅเคเคฐเคคเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Fanatismus
๐ฎ๐ฉ fanatisme
๐บ๐ฆ ัะฐะฝะฐัะธะทะผ
๐ต๐ฑ fanatyzm
๐ฏ๐ต ็ไฟก
๐ซ๐ท fanatisme
๐ช๐ธ fanatismo
๐น๐ท fanatizm
๐ฐ๐ท ๊ด์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุชุนุตุจ ุฏููู
๐จ๐ฟ fanatismus
๐ธ๐ฐ fanatizmus
๐จ๐ณ ็็ญ
๐ธ๐ฎ fanatizem
๐ฎ๐ธ ofstรฆkisme
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะฐะฝะฐัะธะทะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แคแแแแขแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ fanatizm
๐ฒ๐ฝ fanatismo