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idolize

verb

/ˈaɪd lˌaɪz/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of idolize

To admire, revere, or regard someone or something with an intense and often uncritical level of adoration or reverence.
"Many people idolize famous actors for their talents."

Detailed meaning of idolize

It involves placing a person or an object on a pedestal and treating them as an idealized figure worthy of immense admiration and emulation. When someone idolizes another individual, they often view them as a role model, believing that they possess exceptional qualities, achievements, or characteristics. Idolization can stem from a deep sense of respect, inspiration, or a desire to emulate the perceived virtues or successes of the idolized person. It often involves an emotional attachment and a strong desire to imitate or be associated with the idol. However, idolization can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations, overlooking flaws or shortcomings, and potentially placing undue pressure on both the idol and the person idolizing them.

Example sentences containing idolize

1. Children often idolize superheroes, dreaming of having their powers.
2. She idolizes her grandmother for her wisdom and kindness.
3. Some musicians idolize classical composers as the pinnacle of creativity.
4. Fans tend to idolize athletes, sometimes without knowing much about their personal lives.
5. As a budding chef, he idolizes world-renowned cooks and aspires to be like them.
6. The villagers idolize the leader for bringing prosperity to their community.

History and etymology of idolize

The verb 'idolize' is a derivative of the noun 'idol,' and its etymology is closely tied to the same Greek root. It stems from the Greek word 'eidolon,' which means 'image,' 'form,' or 'representation.' In ancient Greek culture, 'eidolon' was often used to describe images or representations of deities that were worshipped with great devotion and admiration. Over time, as the concept of idol worship extended to include not only deities but also admired individuals or objects, the verb 'idolize' emerged in English to describe the intense and often uncritical adoration or reverence directed toward someone or something. When we use the term 'idolize,' we are invoking its historical connection to the worship of images and deities, emphasizing the fervent admiration and veneration that characterizes this intense level of adoration.

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Further usage examples of idolize

1. Teenagers often idolize pop stars, emulating their style and music.
2. Entrepreneurs sometimes idolize successful business moguls for their achievements.
3. In some cultures, people idolize ancestors and pay tribute to them.
4. The young painter idolizes the Renaissance masters and studies their techniques.
5. The students idolize their teacher for his dedication and support.
6. Many idolize historical figures without critically examining their flaws.
7. Some people idolize characters from books and find inspiration in their stories.
8. He idolizes his father for his unwavering strength and resilience.
9. The aspiring astronaut idolizes Neil Armstrong, dreaming of walking on the Moon.
10. Fans idolize their favorite gamers and streamers, watching their content religiously.
11. The football team idolizes their coach for his brilliant strategies.
12. The startup founder idolizes Elon Musk and dreams of revolutionizing technology.
13. Many young scientists idolize Marie Curie for her pioneering work in radioactivity.
14. Many teenagers tend to idolize their favorite celebrities.
15. Some people idolize success, often overlooking the hard work behind it.
16. She couldn't help but idolize her older sister's achievements.
17. It's important not to idolize individuals without flaws.
18. People often idolize historical figures for their contributions.
19. Celebrities are frequently idolized in the world of entertainment.
20. He used to idolize his father, seeing him as a hero.
21. Some fans idolize their sports heroes to an extreme degree.
22. We should strive to idolize qualities, not just individuals.
23. Cultures often idolize leaders who bring positive change.
24. Don't idolize someone blindly; acknowledge their imperfections too.