Definition

1. Noun:
   • The worship of devils; the acts or rites of worshiping devils: "Diabolatry" refers to the religious veneration, adoration, or worship of devils or demonic beings.

Usage

• Noun:
  • "Diabolatry" is a formal and rare term, typically used in theological, historical, or anthropological contexts to describe practices considered heretical or antithetical to mainstream religions.
  • It functions as a singular, uncountable noun.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The ancient text described rituals of diabolatry performed in secret.
  • Accusations of diabolatry were often used to persecute minority sects.
  • His research focused on the history of diabolatry in medieval Europe.

Advanced Usage

• "to be accused of diabolatry": to be charged with the crime of worshiping devils.
  • The heretics were accused of diabolatry and sentenced by the Inquisition.

Variants and Related Words

• Diabolism (n): Belief in or worship of the devil; sorcery or black magic. While closely related, "diabolism" can have a broader meaning encompassing devil-worship and magical practices, whereas "diabolatry" is more strictly focused on the worship aspect.
• Demonolatry (n): The worship of demons. This is a near-synonym, though "demon" and "devil" can have nuanced differences in various belief systems.
• Satanism (n): The worship of Satan, often used in modern contexts. This is a more specific and contemporary term.

Synonyms

• Devil-worship: The most direct and common synonym.
• Demon worship: Worship of demons.
• Satanic worship: Worship of Satan.

Antonyms

• Theolatry: Worship of God or gods.
• Christolatry: Worship of Christ.

Noun

1. the acts or rites of worshiping devils