Definition

Diabolism (noun) 1. A belief in and reverence for devils, especially Satan: This is the core meaning, referring to the worship of or belief in the power of devils or evil spirits. 2. Sorcery or witchcraft thought to involve the aid of devils: This meaning extends to practices considered to be black magic or malevolent witchcraft that invokes demonic powers.

Examples of Usage

• The medieval text detailed accusations of against the accused heretics.
• His research focused on the history of in early modern European witch trials.
• The novel's villain was a practitioner of , seeking power through pacts with demons.

Advanced Usage

• "Literary diabolism": A term used in literary criticism to describe the thematic use of satanic or demonic figures, rebellion against divine order, or the exploration of evil in works like John Milton's .
• "Political diabolism": A metaphorical use where a political opponent or ideology is rhetorically framed as utterly and irredeemably evil, akin to devil-worship.

Variants and Related Words

• Diabolical (adjective): Of, relating to, or characteristic of the devil; fiendishly wicked or cruel.
  • Example: He concocted a diabolical plan for revenge.
• Diabolist (noun): A person who believes in or worships devils; a practitioner of diabolism.

Synonyms

• Satanism
• Demon-worship
• Devil-worship
• Black magic (in the context of practice)
• Sorcery (in the context of practice)

Antonyms

• Theism
• Deism
• Sainthood
• Angelism (rare, meaning belief in or reverence for angels)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To have a diabolical streak": To possess a cunning or cruelly mischievous aspect to one's character.
  • Example: Beneath his charming smile, he had a diabolical streak.
• "A pact with the devil": This common idiom is directly related to the concepts of diabolism, referring to a deal made with Satan, typically trading one's soul for worldly gain.

Noun

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