worship

/ˈwɜːrʃɪp/
noun, verbIntermediate reverence for a deity or sacred object
formal

The act of showing reverence or devotion to a deity or sacred object.

She knelt in worship during the ceremony.

She showed devotion to her deity by kneeling.

💡

Often associated with religious practices.

informal

Excessive admiration or devotion to someone or something.

He worships his favorite celebrity.

He admires his favorite celebrity to an extreme degree.

💡

Used metaphorically to describe intense admiration.

Collocations

worship servicea religious gathering for worshipworship leadera person who leads a worship sessionworship musicmusic used in religious worship

Related Phrases

worship at the altar ofphrase
to idolize someone or something

💡Pro Tip

Literal vs. Figurative Use

Be mindful of the context to distinguish between religious reverence and metaphorical admiration.

Gold Rule

Religious Context

In religious contexts, 'worship' refers to acts of devotion to a deity or sacred object.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'worshippen', from Old English 'weorthscipe', meaning 'worthiness, dignity, honor'.

📝Usage Notes

The word can be used both literally (religious context) and figuratively (extreme admiration).

Word Breakdown

worth
value or dignity
root
+
-ship
state or condition
suffix
English Dictionary