Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌpɒlɪˈθiːɪstɪk/
KK: /pɑlɪˈθiːɪstɪk/
Definition
Relating to the belief in or worship of multiple gods.
Example
Many ancient cultures were polytheistic, believing in many different deities.
Conversation

Did you know that ancient Greece had a polytheistic belief system?

Yeah, they had so many gods and goddesses for everything.

Exactly! I find their polytheistic culture really fascinating.

Me too, it adds so much depth to their mythology.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
multitheistic
pagan
idolatrous
Antonyms
monotheistic
atheistic
secular
Root Explanation
Polytheistic → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "theos" (meaning god). The word describes a belief system that acknowledges or worships many gods.
Memory Tip
Think of 'many' ('poly-') gods ('theos') to remember that polytheistic refers to the belief in multiple deities.
Visually Confused Words
proatheistic
theistic
proselytistic
physitheistic
philotheistic