Epeolatry is a word used to describe the worship of words. It is spelled as /ɛˈpiːələtri/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The first syllable is represented by the schwa sound /ə/, followed by a long "ee" sound /i:/ in the second syllable. The third syllable begins with an "uh" sound /ə/ before ending with the sound of the letter "r". The final syllable consists of "tree" sound /tri/. When pronounced correctly, this word is a pleasure to say out loud.
Epeolatry is a noun that refers to the worship or excessive admiration of words. It stems from the Greek roots "epos" meaning "word" and "latreia" meaning "worship". In essence, epeolatry is the veneration or reverence of language and the power it holds.
This term describes a profound love and fascination towards words, language, and their usage. It signifies the intense passion one may have for the beauty, expressiveness, and significance of words. For those who engage in epeolatry, language becomes a source of wonder and awe, and they take great pleasure in exploring the depths of its capacity to convey meaning.
Individuals who practice epeolatry often enjoy engaging in activities that involve words, such as writing, reading, or even word games. They may find themselves deeply affected by the nuances of language, savoring the sound, rhythm, and structure of words. Language can evoke a sense of enchantment, and those who hold epeolatry may view words as intricately tied to their emotions and experiences.
While some may consider epeolatry a niche interest, it serves as a valuable reminder of the power of words to shape our thoughts, experiences, and perception of the world. It highlights the profound impact that language can have on human connection, psychology, and cultural expression. Consequently, epeolatry is a term that encapsulates a deep-seated, almost spiritual affinity for words and their significance in our lives.
The word "epeolatry" is derived from two Greek roots: "epéōn", meaning "word", and "latréia", meaning "worship" or "adoration". It was coined in the mid-19th century by American poet and lexicographer Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., combining these Greek roots to create a term that specifically refers to the worship or obsession with words and language.