Idolastre is a word that refers to someone who is an idolater or worshipper of idols. The spelling of this word is derived from the Latin term idolastres, which itself comes from the Greek ἰδωλολάτρης (idōlolátrēs). When using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the word Idolastre is pronounced as /ˈaɪdəlæstər/, with emphasis on the second syllable ‘del’. This word is rarely used in modern language and is typically only found in historical or religious contexts.
Idolastre, derived from the French word "idolâtre," is a term used to refer to a person who practices or espouses idolatry. A comprehensive dictionary definition of idolastre would describe this term as an individual who venerates or worships idols, whether in the form of physical objects made from various materials or in a symbolic sense. Such idols are often believed to represent or house spiritual or divine powers, and the practice of idolatry involves praying to, making offerings to, or otherwise seeking blessings from these idols.
Idolastre encompasses individuals who adhere to religious beliefs or traditional customs that involve idol worship. Historically, idolatry has been prevalent in numerous ancient civilizations and religions across the world, including but not limited to ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, and certain indigenous belief systems. In a broader sense, the term may also encompass individuals who excessively idolize or admire a person, object, or concept beyond rational bounds.
In contemporary usage, idolastre may be used metaphorically to describe someone who blindly or obsessively idolizes a public figure, celebrity, or even an abstract ideal, often to the point of disregarding critical thinking or objective judgment. This extended definition highlights the tendency of some individuals to elevate the perceived perfection or greatness of someone or something, irrespective of their flaws or weaknesses.
The word "Idolastre" is derived from the Middle English term "Idololastre" or "Idololastre", which originated from the Old French word "idolastre". In turn, the Old French term was borrowed from the Late Latin word "idololatrēs", which can be broken down further. The Latin term combines "idol-" derived from the Greek word "eidōlon" meaning "image" or "idol", and "-latrēs", derived from the Greek word "-latreia" meaning "worship" or "service". Therefore, "Idolastre" ultimately means "one who worships idols" or "idolater" in English.