idol
UK: ˈaɪ.dəl | US: ˈaɪ.dəl
n. an image or representation of a god used as an object of worship
n. a person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered
n. (archaic) a false god; a deity worshipped in place of the true God
idol = id<image/form> + ol<noun suffix>
- id<image/form>: From Greek eidōlon, meaning "image," "phantom," or "apparition."
- ol<noun suffix>: A suffix derived from Greek -olon, indicating a noun form.
Etymology Origin:
The word "idol" traces back to Greek eidōlon, which originally referred to any visual representation—whether a physical statue, a mental image, or even a ghostly apparition. Over time, it took on religious connotations, particularly in Judeo-Christian contexts, where it came to signify false gods or objects of idolatry. In modern usage, it has expanded to include secular admiration (e.g., pop idols). The morpheme id- preserves the core idea of an image, while -ol marks it as a noun.
The ancient temple housed a golden idol of the sun god.
Teenagers often treat celebrities as their idols.
The prophet condemned the worship of idols.
She became an idol for aspiring musicians worldwide.
In his speech, he warned against making money an idol.