Anthropolater is a noun that refers to a person who worships or venerates human beings. The word is pronounced [an-throh-pol-uh-ter] and is spelled with the prefix "anthro-" meaning "human" and the suffix "-later" meaning "worshipper." The first syllable "an-" is pronounced with a schwa sound and is followed by the stressed syllable "throh." The second syllable "pol" has a short "o" sound, and the third syllable "uh" is pronounced with a schwa sound. Finally, the last syllable "ter" has a similar sound to the word "later."
An anthropolater is an individual who practices anthropolatry, which refers to the worship or veneration of humans, especially in its extreme form. It is derived from the Greek words "anthropos" meaning "human" and "latreia" meaning "worship." The term anthropolater can be used to describe someone who ascribes divine attributes or qualities to humans and regards them as worthy of adoration or reverence.
Anthropolatry was particularly prevalent in ancient civilizations, such as Egypt and Rome, where rulers or emperors were deified and treated as gods. In these societies, individuals who engaged in anthropolatry would worship the ruler and offer prayers, sacrifices, and acts of devotion as if they were addressing divine beings. The belief in the divinity of humans can also be found in certain religious or spiritual movements throughout history.
In a more general sense, anthropolater could refer to someone who excessively idolizes or glorifies humans, placing them on a pedestal and valuing their opinions, actions, or achievements above all others. This could manifest itself in hero-worship, celebrity obsession, or undue admiration for influential individuals.
It is worth noting that while the term anthropolater may have negative connotations in some contexts, it can also be used neutrally or positively to describe individuals who deeply respect and value the potential and dignity of every human being.
The word "anthropolater" is derived from two Greek roots: "anthro" meaning "human" and "latreia" meaning "worship" or "adoration". When combined, the term "anthropolater" refers to someone who worships or reveres humans.