The word "idolised" is the British English spelling of the verb meaning to admire or worship someone or something. It is pronounced /ˈaɪdəlaɪzd/ with the stress on the second syllable. The long "i" sound is represented by the letter "i" followed by a silent "e". The "s" at the end of the word indicates that it is in the past tense. Some variations in the spelling and pronunciation of this word exist, such as "idolized" and /ˈaɪdəlaɪzd/ in American English.
The term "idolised" is an adjective derived from the verb "idolize," which refers to the act of adoring, revering, or reverencing someone or something excessively or excessively considering them as an idol or a role model. When someone is idolised, they are deeply admired, respected, and placed on a pedestal by others. This intense admiration often leads to a level of adoration and zeal that surpasses normative appreciation or esteem.
Idolised individuals or objects may hold significant power, talent, or achievements that inspire others to emulate or aspire to their qualities. This worship-like admiration stems from the belief that the idol possesses exceptional qualities, virtues, or attributes which make them worthy of admiration. People may idolise famous personalities, such as celebrities, athletes, or political figures, as well as historical figures or fictional characters. Similarly, idols can extend beyond individuals to include objects, symbols, or even ideas that hold immense cultural, religious, or social significance.
The concept of idolisation involves a strong emotional connection between the idoliser and the idolised, often resulting in the colloquial phrase "putting someone on a pedestal." Idolisation can lead to the emulation of the idol's behaviors, values, or appearance, as individuals seek to replicate the perceived qualities that make the idol remarkable. However, idolisation can also bring about unrealistic expectations, disappointment, or overreliance on the idol. Consequently, careful reflection ought to be exercised when idolising someone or something and distinguishing between genuine admiration and the potential for unhealthy fixation or obsession.
The word "idolised" is derived from the noun "idol". The noun "idol" originates from the Old French word "idole", which in turn was borrowed from the Late Latin word "idolum". This Latin term was derived from the Greek word "eidōlon", meaning "image" or "representation". In its earliest usage, "idol" referred to an image or representation of a deity, usually used for worship. Over time, the verb form "idolise" (also spelled "idolize") developed, which means to admire, revere, or treat someone or something as an idol or object of extreme devotion or admiration.