What does idolize mean?
Idolize is a verb meaning to admire or love someone or something so strongly that the person or object becomes an ideal to emulate. It is commonly used for singers, athletes, actors, historical figures, and other admired public personalities, as in "fans idolize the band." The word often carries a slightly critical or ironic tone, suggesting devotion that may be excessive or insufficiently critical. It can also be used approvingly to express deep admiration. In its second sense, to idolize means to treat someone or something as faultless or exemplary. The related noun is "idolatry," while "idol" names the person or object that receives such devotion. Although the modern word usually concerns admiration for people, its history is religious: an idol was originally an image representing or dedicated to a deity.
To admire or love someone or something extremely, often to the point of excessive devotion.
"The team idolized its captain after the championship victory."
Commonly used for admired performers, athletes, and public figures; often implies a degree of excessive or uncritical admiration.
To regard someone or something as a perfect model or ideal.
"Young artists often idolize the teachers who shape their early work."
This sense is closely related to the primary meaning and may suggest an idealized, faultless view.
Idolize began with the worship of physical images of gods; today it describes the extraordinary devotion given to performers, athletes, and other public figures.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does idolize come from?
The word comes through French from Latin "idolum," a borrowing of Greek "eidolon," meaning an image or representation. In earlier English, "idol" referred to a physical image of a god or a false deity, and "to idolize" originally meant to worship such an image. The secular sense of excessively admiring a person developed later, especially by the 18th century, when the word could refer to a greatly admired public figure.
Related word forms
How idolize is actually used
Usually neutral or mildly critical: it suggests admiration that may be excessive, though it can be used approvingly in contexts such as "idolized by generations of fans." The spelling "idolise" is common in British English.
Easily confused with idolize
Idolize means to admire someone with intense devotion, whereas idealize means to represent or regard something as better than it really is.