idol

[ˈaɪdəl]

idol Definition

  • 1an image or representation of a god used as an object of worship
  • 2a person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered

Using idol: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "idol" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The temple was filled with idols of various gods and goddesses.

  • Example

    He became an idol to millions of fans around the world.

  • Example

    She has been my idol since I was a child.

  • Example

    The movie star is considered an idol by many young people.

idol Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using idol

  • a person who was once highly regarded but has lost favor or popularity

    Example

    The politician was a fallen idol after being caught in a corruption scandal.

  • a false notion or belief that is held as true

    Example

    The idea that money can buy happiness is an idol of the mind.

  • idol of one's eye

    a person or thing that is cherished above all others

    Example

    His daughter was the idol of his eye.

Phrases with idol

  • the act of worshiping an idol or image as a god

    Example

    Idol worship is common in some religions.

  • a young celebrity who is popular among teenagers

    Example

    In the 1980s, Michael Jackson was a teen idol.

  • a popular American television show in which contestants compete to become the next singing superstar

    Example

    Kelly Clarkson won the first season of American Idol.

Origins of idol

from Late Old English 'idol', from Latin 'idolum', meaning 'image, form, apparition'

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Summary: idol in Brief

The term 'idol' [ˈaɪdəl] refers to either an image or representation of a god used for worship or a person or thing that is greatly admired. It can be used to describe religious objects like 'The temple was filled with idols of various gods and goddesses,' or celebrities like 'He became an idol to millions of fans around the world.' 'Idol' extends into phrases like 'teen idol,' and idioms like 'fallen idol,' denoting a loss of popularity, and 'idol of one's eye,' referring to someone cherished above all others.

How do native speakers use this expression?