cult
UK: kʌlt | US: kʌlt
n. a system of religious veneration and devotion directed toward a particular figure or object
n. a small group of people having religious beliefs or practices regarded by others as strange or sinister
n. a misplaced or excessive admiration for a particular person or thing
The word "cult" originates from the Latin cultus, meaning "care, labor; cultivation, worship," derived from colere ("to till, cultivate, honor"). Initially, it referred to religious worship or ritual practices. Over time, it evolved to denote intense devotion, often with negative connotations of fringe or extremist groups. The modern sense reflects both reverence and suspicion, capturing the duality of admiration and control.
The ancient temple was the center of a mysterious cult.
Some consider his fanbase to be almost like a cult.
The cult leader manipulated his followers into isolation.
She studied the cult of personality surrounding historical figures.
Authorities disbanded the dangerous cult after a long investigation.