polytheistic

/,pɔliθi:'istik/

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Word: Polytheistic

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "polytheistic" describes a belief system or religion that worships or believes in more than one god.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "polytheistic" to describe religions or belief systems that have multiple gods.
• It is often used in discussions about different cultures and their religious practices.

Example:

• "Hinduism is a polytheistic religion because it has many gods and goddesses, such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Durga."

Advanced Usage:

• You might encounter "polytheistic" in academic discussions or texts about religion, anthropology, or history when comparing different belief systems.

Word Variants:

• Polytheism (noun): The belief in or worship of multiple gods.
  • Example: "Polytheism was common in ancient civilizations."
• Polytheist (noun): A person who believes in multiple gods.
  • Example: "The ancient Greeks were polytheists, worshipping gods like Zeus and Athena."

Different Meanings:

• "Polytheistic" specifically refers to religions with multiple gods, in contrast to:
  • Monotheistic (adjective): Believing in only one god (e.g., Christianity, Islam).
  • Atheistic (adjective): Not believing in any gods.

Synonyms:

• Multitheistic (less common)
• Non-monotheistic (more general)

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "polytheistic," but you can discuss religious beliefs using phrases like:
  • "Worship multiple deities."
  • "Believe in many gods."

Summary:

"Polytheistic" is a simple yet important word in understanding different cultures and religions. It helps describe systems that recognize and honor various gods, and it contrasts with monotheistic beliefs.

Academic

Adjective

1. worshipping or believing in more than one god