worship - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
worship Word Meanings
- the act of showing reverence or adoration for a deity
- to regard with great or extravagant respect
- to perform religious rites or ceremonies.
worship Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
worship Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈwɜː.ʃɪp/
US
/ˈwɜr.ʃɪp/
worship Word Etymology
Root: worth (value) + ship (state of being). Historical origin: Old English 'weorþscipe' → 'worship' in modern English. Memory image: Imagine a person kneeling before a shrine, with offerings as a sign of their value and devotion.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I plant my hand on the table and push it forward, watching the moment move from action to focus. I shift my attention from noise to stillness, as if the room itself holds its breath for a small ritual. I adjust my posture, steady my breathing, and place my gaze on what I revere. The feeling grows not from rules but from a choice I keep returning to, making the moment feel sacred.
Real Context
Worship is the act of showing reverence, adoration, or devotion, typically toward a deity in a religious setting, but it can also describe extreme admiration for a person, idea, or thing. As a noun, it refers to the ritual practices, songs, prayers, or ceremonial acts performed in a church, temple, mosque, or shrine. As a verb, to worship means to honor or revere, to perform religious rites, or to idolize someone or something to a lavish degree. In secular use, statements like 'the fans worship at the altar of their favorite singer' express intense admiration rather than religious acts. The word traces back to worth and ship, emphasizing value and state.
Usage Reminders
- - Worship can be both a noun and a verb.
- - In religious contexts, it usually involves reverence, rituals, and prayer.
- - In secular use, worship often means intense admiration, not literal rites.
- - Be careful not to confuse worship with mere respect or liking.
- - The phrase 'worship at the altar of' is metaphorical, not literal worship.
Common Misconceptions
- Worship equals mere respect or liking; it is not just admiration.
- Worship is only about gods and official religious rituals.
- To worship something means you worship it in a literal, formal sense every time.
- Worship and adore are always interchangeable.
- Worship cannot be used in secular, non-religious contexts.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn worship as two parts (noun and verb).
- Note common collocations: worship a deity, worship at a church, worship someone/something.
- Distinguish worship from admire or respect; the intensity and ritual context matter.
- Watch metaphorical uses (worship at the altar of).
- Practice with both religious and secular examples.
- Pronounce with stress on first syllable: WOR-ship.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'worship'?
A.To love deeply
B.To ignore completely
C.To dislike strongly
D.To honor as divine
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'worship' used correctly?
A.The village would worship the mountain as a god.
B.She ignored her cat's worship for attention.
C.He worshipped his alarm clock every morning.
D.They decided to worship a soccer ball as a symbol of teamwork.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'worship'?
A.Despise
B.Desire
C.Disrespect
D.Adore
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'worship'?
A.Praise
B.Respect
C.Neglect
D.Revere
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might someone worship a deity?
A.At a birthday party
B.During a job interview
C.While cleaning the house
D.At a religious ceremony
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