worship
UK: ˈwɜːʃɪp | US: ˈwɜːrʃɪp
n. the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity or sacred object
vt. to show reverence and adoration for (a deity or sacred object)
n. (archaic) honor or respect shown to someone in a position of authority
The word worship originated in Old English as weorþscipe, combining weorþ (worth) and -scipe (a suffix indicating state or condition). It originally meant "the condition of being worthy of honor," later narrowing to religious reverence. The shift reflects how societal values of honor became intertwined with devotion to deities.
The congregation gathered to worship in the ancient cathedral.
She worships nature as if it were a divine force.
In medieval times, knights swore to worship their lords with unwavering loyalty.
His worship of fame blinded him to genuine relationships.
The temple was built for the worship of the sun god.