Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of making someone or something into a god: The process of elevating a person or object to divine status.
   • The idealization or glorification of someone or something to an extreme degree: Treating a concept, person, or thing with the reverence or worship typically reserved for a deity.
   • The condition of being treated as a god: The state of receiving godlike adoration or worship.

Usage and Examples

• As the act of making divine:

  • The deification of Roman emperors was a common political practice.
  • Ancient myths often describe the deification of heroes.

• As extreme glorification:

  • The biography avoided the deification of its subject, presenting a balanced view instead.
  • The deification of consumerism in modern society is a topic for critics.

• As the state of being worshipped:

  • The cult leader lived in a state of deification among his followers.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• Cultural/Historical Context: Often used to describe historical or religious processes where mortals are officially declared gods.
  • The pharaoh's deification was central to Egyptian state religion.
• Critical/Figurative Use: Commonly used in a critical or metaphorical sense to criticize excessive admiration.
  • The media's deification of the celebrity was seen as unhealthy.

Variants and Related Words

• Deify (verb): To make a god of; to worship or regard as a god.
  • Some cultures deify their ancestors.
• Deified (adjective): Treated or regarded as a god.
  • The deified ruler was depicted in temples.

Synonyms

• Apotheosis: The highest point in the development of something; culmination or climax. Also means the elevation of someone to divine status.
• Exaltation: The action of elevating someone in rank, power, or character. Can imply lifting to a divine level.
• Glorification: The action of describing or representing something as admirable, especially unjustifiably.

Antonyms

• Demonization: The portrayal of something as wicked and threatening.
• Vilification: Abusively disparaging speech or criticism.
• Desecration: The act of treating a sacred place or thing with violent disrespect.

Idioms and Common Phrases

• "Border on deification": To describe an attitude of admiration so extreme it is akin to worship.
  • The fans' admiration for the singer bordered on deification.

Noun

1. the elevation of a person (as to the status of a god)
2. an embodiment of the qualities of a god
   • the capitalists' deification of capital
3. the condition of being treated like a god