worship
/ˈwɜːʃɪp/
The word conveys a total surrender of the ego to something perceived as superior, whether divine or human. It suggests an intensity that goes beyond simple respect or liking, implying a state of awe-struck devotion. In a religious context, it is formal and sacred, involving ritualized behavior intended to honor a higher power. The feeling is one of humility and submission. When applied to people, the connotation often shifts toward the obsessive or idealizing. To "worship" a person suggests a lack of critical distance, where the object of affection is placed on a pedestal and viewed as flawless. This usage can be romantic and sweet, or cautionary and unhealthy.
Uncountable when referring to the general act of devotion (worship is central to the faith). Countable when referring to a specific service or instance of ritual (a morning worship).
💬Casual Conversation
DAVID WHY DOES CHLOE WORSHIP THAT BOY SHE IS DATING HE LOOKS ODD
Mom please stop. I'm trying to circle back with my team right now.
Meanings
To show reverence and adoration for a deity or divine being.
"Many people gather in temples to worship their gods."
To feel deep admiration or love for someone, often to an excessive degree.
"As a child, he would worship his older brother's every move."
Etymology
Derived from the Old English word weorþscipe, which is a compound of weorþ (meaning worth) and scipe (a suffix denoting a state or condition). Originally, the term referred to the state of being worthy of honor or the act of attributing worth to someone, evolving from a general expression of respect for high-ranking individuals to a specific religious practice of divine adoration.