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Glite Dictionary
demonolatry

demonolatry

9.9
The worship of demons or evil spirits, often in secret ceremonies
  • noun
  • /ˌdɛmənˈɑlətri/
  • Specialized
translation icon : demonolatría
  • The book explores various forms of demonolatry around the world.

Examples

  • Her book explores the history and symbolism of demonolatry in European folklore.

  • The ancient cult was rumored to engage in secretive demonolatry rites.

  • In the 17th century, accusations of demonolatry were often used to justify witch hunts.

  • Many ancient cultures practiced demonolatry as part of their rituals.

  • In ancient cultures, some people engaged in demonolatry to seek favor from evil spirits during important ceremonies.

  • The rituals of demonolatry often involve offerings designed to appease the demons and ensure protection.

  • Many scholars study demonolatry to understand the historical context of how such worship influenced local traditions.

Synonyms

Satanism
vsdemonolatry
11 8.9

Belief in and worship of Satan or devils, often with ceremonies and special practices

is narrower, meaning formal ritual worship of evil spirits rather than broad beliefs
demonism
vsdemonolatry
1 9.9

Belief in or worship of evil spirits like Satan

focuses on ritual worship and rites rather than broad belief or doctrine
diabolism
vsdemonolatry
1 9.9

Belief in or worship of devils, especially Satan

highlights ritual worship of evil spirits more than abstract doctrinal belief
diabolatry
vsdemonolatry
  • Archaic
9.9

The worship of devils or Satan

focuses on worship of evil spirits rather than specifically devils or Satan
devil-worship
vsdemonolatry
9.9

To pray to devils or evil spirits, often using special rituals

emphasizes worship of evil spirits often via formal rites rather than general reverence

Surface Forms

demonolatry singular
demonolatries plural

Morphology

demonolatry = demon (transparent) = demon + latry

Formed from 'demon' + the learned suffix '-latry' (with a connecting vowel 'o'); the meaning 'worship of demons' follows directly from its parts.

Etymology

Demonolatry comes from two parts: demon (from a word for 'spirit' or 'demon') and -latry (a part that means 'worship', the same ending in idolatry). So, demonolatry means 'worship of demons', often in special rites or ceremonies.