deify
UK: ˈdiːɪfaɪ | US: ˈdiːəfaɪ
vt. to make someone or something into a god
vt. to treat someone or something with extreme admiration or reverence
The word deify originates from Late Latin deificare, combining deus (god) and -ficare (to make). It entered Middle English via Old French deifier, retaining the core meaning of elevating someone or something to divine status. The suffix -fy is a common marker for verbs indicating transformation, reinforcing the idea of "making into a god." Historically, the term was used in religious contexts but later expanded metaphorically to describe excessive admiration.
Ancient rulers often sought to deify themselves to legitimize their power.
Some fans deify celebrities, treating them as infallible idols.
The cult attempted to deify their leader, attributing supernatural powers to him.
Art can deify ordinary moments, turning them into something transcendent.
Philosophers debate whether humans deify concepts like love or justice to give them greater meaning.