idol
Idol (noun) means an object, often a statue or image, worshipped as a god or believed to hold spiritual power. Example: “Archaeologists found a small stone idol in the temple ruins.”
How to use idol
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a worshipped image/object, or a hugely admired celebrity figure.
Don't confuse with "idle" (inactive) — same pronunciation, unrelated meaning.
Word forms
idols plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Archaeologists found a small stone _____ in the temple ruins.
Etymology
From Greek eidolon, "image" or "phantom," from eidos, "form" — the same root that gives us "idea."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “idol” mean?
The word “idol” means an object, often a statue or image, worshipped as a god or believed to hold spiritual power. In plain terms, either a worshipped image/object, or a hugely admired celebrity figure.
How do you pronounce “idol”?
“Idol” is pronounced EYE-dl (/ˈaɪ.dl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “idol” in a sentence?
Here is “idol” used in a sentence: “Archaeologists found a small stone idol in the temple ruins.”
What is another word for “idol”?
Words with a similar meaning to “idol” include pagod and pagoda.
What part of speech is “idol”?
“Idol” is a noun.
Where does the word “idol” come from?
The word “idol” comes from Greek. From Greek eidolon, "image" or "phantom," from eidos, "form" — the same root that gives us "idea.".
Is “idol” a common word?
“Idol” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “idol” have?
“Idol” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an object, often a statue or image, worshipped as a god or believed to hold spiritual power.
What is the difference between an idol and an icon?
An idol is either an image worshipped as a god or a person who is intensely admired. An icon is a widely recognised symbol or representative figure; a person can be both, but 'icon' stresses symbolic status while 'idol' stresses devotion or adoration.
What is the difference between an idol and a role model?
An idol is someone greatly admired, often with strong emotional devotion, such as a celebrity or performer. A role model is someone whose behaviour you consciously try to imitate, so the emphasis falls on guidance and example rather than adoration.
How is 'idol' used in a religious context?
In religion, an idol is an object, often a statue or image, that is worshipped as a god or believed to hold spiritual power. Many faiths use the word critically to describe worship directed at a physical object rather than the divine itself.
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