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iconolatry

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /aɪˈkɒnəˌlɑːtri/

KK: /aɪˈkɒnəˌleɪtri/

noun
Definition

The practice of worshipping images or icons, often in a religious context.


Example

The church was known for its iconolatry, where many gathered to honor the sacred images.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of iconolatry?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's the worship of images, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! Some people really take it to the next level.
Sloth B
It's interesting how deep that kind of devotion can go.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
idolatry
worship
veneration
Antonyms
iconoclasm
disdain
scorn
Root Explanation

Iconolatry is formed from "icon" (from Greek "eikon", meaning image or likeness) and "-latry" (from Greek "latreia", meaning worship). The word refers to the worship of images or icons, particularly in a religious context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'image' ('icon') that is 'worshipped' ('-latry') — that's why iconolatry means the worship of images.

Visually Confused Words
onolatry
consolatory
condolatory
monolatry
oxonolatry
idololatry
cosmolatry
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