What does worshipable mean?
Worshipable is an adjective meaning worthy of worship, or deserving of solemn reverence. It normally describes a deity, saint, relic, image, person, or other object that a community regards as holy or worthy of devotion. For example, one might say that a sacred icon is worshipable or that a revered leader has become a worshipable figure. The word can also occur in less formal modern English as a playful or emphatic way of saying that someone or something is exceptionally lovable or admirable, though this is an extension of its literal religious sense. As a relatively uncommon word, worshipable is useful when the quality being described is stronger than simple respect: it implies that the subject is placed on a level of devotion ordinarily reserved for divine or sacred beings. In careful writing, it is most appropriate for religious, cultural, or metaphorical contexts and may sound overly dramatic when applied casually to ordinary people or objects.
adjectiveWorthy of worship or veneration; deserving of supreme reverence. In informal use, so lovable or admirable as to inspire intense adoration.
- Deserving of worship or sacred veneration.
- In informal, emphatic use, exceptionally lovable or admirable enough to provoke intense adoration.
"After singing the solo, she was absolutely worshipable."
"The villagers regarded the child as worshipable, treating the child as a living saint."
"After singing the solo, she was absolutely worshipable."
Worshipable turns devotion into a description: it asks who or what has reached the status of an object of worship.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of worshipable
Worshipable was formed in English by adding the suffix -able to worship, in keeping with the pattern of words meaning “capable of being” something. The suffix -able came through Old French from Latin -abilis, while worship itself developed from Old English weorðscipe, associated with weorð, “worth.” The modern adjective therefore expresses the idea that someone or something is fit to receive worship or veneration.
How worshipable is actually used
A relatively uncommon and elevated word. Its literal religious sense is formal and may sound hyperbolic outside a devotional context, while the informal extension meaning exceptionally lovable or admirable is playful and enthusiastic.
Easily confused with worshipable
Worship is the act or practice of venerating a deity or sacred object, whereas worshipable is an adjective describing someone or something worthy of such devotion.