Definition

Noun: A person who worships idols. This term specifically refers to an individual who engages in the religious or devotional practice of venerating physical representations of a deity or deities, often statues or images.

Usage

The term "idol worshiper" is used to describe a person whose religious practice involves idolatry. It is a compound noun formed from "idol" and "worshiper." It is typically used in religious, anthropological, or historical contexts. The term can carry a neutral descriptive meaning or, in some religious traditions, a pejorative connotation when used to contrast with non-iconic forms of worship.

Examples

• The ancient temple was filled with idol worshipers bringing offerings.
• Some early explorers mistakenly labeled all indigenous peoples as idol worshipers.
• The sermon discussed the spiritual dangers faced by the idol worshiper.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically in modern contexts to criticize someone who shows excessive admiration for a celebrity or material object, though this is an extended, figurative use (e.g., "He's such an idol worshiper when it comes to that tech CEO").

Variants and Related Words

• Idolater (noun): A synonym for idol worshiper, often used in theological writings.
• Idolatress (noun): A rarely used, gendered form meaning a female idol worshiper.
• Idolatry (noun): The worship of idols; the practice of an idol worshiper.
• Iconodule (noun): In historical Christian contexts, a supporter of the use of religious icons, which is a related but distinct concept from idol worship.

Synonyms

• Pagan (in specific historical/religious contexts)
• Iconolater
• Fetishist (in specific anthropological contexts)

Antonyms

• Iconoclast
• Monotheist (in contexts where idol worship is associated with polytheism)

Notes on Meaning

The meaning of "idol worshiper" is dependent on the speaker's perspective. Within a religion that prohibits graven images, it is a term of condemnation for outsiders. In academic or descriptive use, it is a neutral term for a practitioner of certain religions. The hyphenated form "idol-worshiper" is also acceptable.

Noun

1. a person who worships idols