Demonolatry

/ˌdɛməˈnɑlətri/ noun

Definition

The worship of demons as divine or supernatural beings; a religious practice or belief system centered on demon-worship.

Etymology

From demon + -latry (from Latin 'latria' meaning worship or veneration). Follows the pattern of idolatry, henothelsim, and theolatry, creating nouns for specific forms of worship.

Kelly Says

Demonolatry was rarely a self-chosen identity—instead, it was a charge leveled at religious minorities, heretics, and the accused witches of the Inquisition, making the word itself a record of how majority religions silenced dissent through demonic accusations.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.