What does polytheistic mean?
Polytheistic describes a religion, culture, or belief system that recognizes or worships more than one god or deity. The word is commonly used in historical, anthropological, and religious studies when contrasting traditions that honor many divine beings with monotheistic systems centered on one god. It can also describe related practices, such as rituals, myths, temples, or social customs. Although the term is often applied to ancient religions such as those of Egypt, Greece, and Mesopotamia, it can describe modern or reconstructed traditions as well. The adjective is derived from the noun polytheism, whose components come from Greek words meaning “many” and “god.” In ordinary conversation, “polytheistic” is more likely to appear in educational, academic, or cultural discussion than in casual speech.
adjectiveRelating to or believing in a worship or acknowledgment of more than one god or deity. It can also describe a religion, culture, or system of belief that recognizes multiple gods.
- Relating to polytheism or to the worship or acknowledgment of multiple gods or deities.
"The museum's exhibition explores the polytheistic traditions of the ancient Mediterranean."
"Ancient Egyptian religion was polytheistic, with different gods associated with the sun, the Nile, and many other forces."
"The scholar compares polytheistic ritual practices with those of other religious traditions."
Polytheistic cultures often understand divinity through many distinct relationships rather than one universal deity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does polytheistic come from?
Polytheistic is derived from polytheism, a term formed from the Greek prefix poly-, meaning “many,” and theos, meaning “god.” The related noun polytheism developed in English as a scholarly description of belief in multiple gods, while the adjective polytheistic followed the same conceptual distinction. The underlying Greek roots are also reflected in cognates such as theism, theist, and deity.
Related word forms
How polytheistic is actually used
This is a formal, descriptive term, especially common in discussions of religion, mythology, history, and cultural studies. It normally describes a religion or belief system rather than an individual person.
Easily confused with polytheistic
A polytheistic belief system recognizes multiple gods, whereas a monotheistic one affirms a single god.