deity

UK: ˈdeɪ.ɪ.ti | US: ˈdiː.ə.ti

Definition
  1. n. a god or goddess

  2. n. divine status, quality, or nature

Structure
dei <god>ty <noun suffix>
Etymology

deity = dei<god> + ty<noun suffix>

  • dei (from Latin deus, meaning "god")
  • ty (a noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -tās, indicating state or condition)

Etymology Origin:
The word "deity" traces back to Latin deus (god) combined with the suffix -tās, which forms abstract nouns. It entered Middle English via Old French deité, retaining its core meaning of divine nature or a divine being. The suffix -ty (like in "liberty" or "sanity") systematically converts roots into nouns denoting qualities or states, making "deity" a logical term for godhood.

Examples
  1. Ancient Greeks worshipped a pantheon of deities, including Zeus and Athena.

  2. The pharaoh was often considered a deity in human form.

  3. Some cultures believe in a single supreme deity.

  4. The artwork depicted the deity with radiant light.

  5. Philosophers debate whether the universe requires a deity to explain its existence.