Definition

1. Noun:
   • A belief in and reverence for devils (especially Satan): "Demonism" refers to the religious or spiritual belief system that involves the worship of, or belief in the power of, demons or evil spirits, often with a specific focus on Satan.
   • The study of or preoccupation with demons: It can also denote an interest in or the doctrine concerning demons.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The ancient text described a cult practicing demonism in the remote mountains.
  • His research focused on the history of demonism in medieval Europe.
  • The villagers feared that the strange rituals were a form of demonism.

Advanced Usage

• "Practices of demonism": This phrase refers to the specific rituals or activities associated with the belief in demons.

  • The book detailed the secret practices of demonism used by the sect.

• "Accusations of demonism": This describes charges or claims that a person or group is involved in devil worship.

  • During the witch trials, many faced false accusations of demonism.

Variants and Related Words

• Demon (n): An evil spirit or devil.

  • The story was about a hero battling a powerful demon.

• Demonic (adj): Relating to or characteristic of demons or evil spirits.

  • The painting had a dark, demonic quality.

• Demonolatry (n): The worship of demons. (This is a more specific, closely related term.)

  • Demonolatry is a central tenet of some occult traditions.

Synonyms

• Diabolism: Worship of or belief in the power of the devil.
• Satanism: The worship of Satan, often used interchangeably but sometimes denoting specific modern religious movements.
• Devil worship: A more general term for the reverence of the devil or demons.

Related Phrases

• "To be accused of demonism": To be charged with engaging in devil worship.

  • The heretical group was accused of demonism by the church authorities.

• "Rites of demonism": The ceremonial practices associated with this belief.

  • The archaeologist discovered artifacts linked to ancient rites of demonism.

Related Idioms

• "A pact with the devil": While not containing the word "demonism," this idiom is conceptually related, referring to a deal with demonic forces for personal gain, often found in stories about demonism.
  • The legend tells of a musician who made a pact with the devil for unmatched talent.

Noun

1. a belief in and reverence for devils (especially Satan)