What does "iconolatry" mean?
The use of images as symbols that provide an inspiration and aid to worship.
Iconolatry
/ˌaɪ.kəˈnɒ.lə.tɹi/ noun
noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: The use of images as symbols that provide an inspiration and aid to worship.
- Grammar: iconolatry is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: animal worship, brand idolization, celebrity worship, demonism.
- Useful contrasts: iconoclasm.
- Usage evidence: The opponents of iconolatry, the Sthanakavāsīs (i.e. those who worship only in community-houses and not in temples) maintain, on the other hand, that the cult of idols was not taught by the Tirthankaras.
How to use "iconolatry"
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- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "iconolatry" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
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- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "iconolatry" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
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Compare nearby meanings
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Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "iconolatry" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
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Final meaning check
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Definitions
Noun
- 1 The use of images as symbols that provide an inspiration and aid to worship. countable, uncountable
"The opponents of iconolatry, the Sthanakavāsīs (i.e. those who worship only in community-houses and not in temples) maintain, on the other hand, that the cult of idols was not taught by the Tirthankaras."
- 2 the worship of sacred images wordnet
- 3 The veneration of celebrities. countable, uncountable
"In the 1950s (his ascent was in 1953), 1960s, 1970s, and possibly beyond, he would surely have commanded supreme admiration, respect, and even iconolatry, especially in his native land."
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
Example
"The opponents of iconolatry, the Sthanakavāsīs (i.e. those who worship only in community-houses and not in temples) maintain, on the other hand, that the cult of idols was not taught by the Tirthankaras."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "iconolatry"?
Common synonyms include: animal worship, brand idolization, celebrity worship, demonism, devil worship, fetishism.
How do you use "iconolatry" in a sentence?
The opponents of iconolatry, the Sthanakavāsīs (i.e. those who worship only in community-houses and not in temples) maintain, on the other hand, that the cult of idols was not taught by the Tirthankaras.
How do you pronounce "iconolatry"?
Pronounced /ˌaɪ.kəˈnɒ.lə.tɹi/.
Etymology
From icono- + -latry.