idolize crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "idolize" in your current crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate, quick solutions and detailed explanations to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "idolize crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ADORE: To love, honor, and deeply respect someone or something.
EXALT: To hold someone or something in very high regard; to praise highly.
6 Letters
REVERE: To hold in deep and affectionate respect, as for a deity or someone of high standing.
7 Letters
WORSHIP: To show adoration and devotion to, often implying a religious or spiritual context, but also used for intense admiration.
GLORIFY: To praise and worship (God); to praise and honor (someone or something).
8 Letters
VENERATE: To regard with great respect; revere. Often used for historical figures or revered traditions.
More About "idolize crossword clue"
"Idolize" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often prompting answers that convey deep admiration, reverence, or even worship. While it can imply a devotion akin to religious worship, in puzzles, it frequently extends to a secular sense of holding someone or something in extremely high regard. Understanding this range of meaning is key to selecting the correct answer based on the given letter count.
Clues related to "idolize" might sometimes play on the positive or negative connotations of the word. While admiring someone can be positive, "idolizing" can sometimes suggest an uncritical, excessive, or even unhealthy admiration. Crossword setters might use this nuance, so always consider the broader context of the puzzle and other intersecting words. Common synonyms like ADORE, REVERE, WORSHIP, and VENERATE are staples, but less common alternatives or those with specific subtle differences might also appear.
The word "idolize" itself comes from "idol," stemming from Greek and Latin roots referring to an image or form, particularly one that is worshipped. This etymological background reinforces its core meaning of intense admiration directed towards a figure or concept, making it a rich word for crossword constructors to play with, offering various synonym possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Synonyms with Nuance: "Idolize" has many synonyms. Pay close attention to the specific nuance required. Is it religious admiration (WORSHIP), deep respect (REVERE, VENERATE), or simply strong affection (ADORE)? The subtle differences can guide you to the right answer.
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the number of letters provided in the grid to narrow down your options. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities for clues like "idolize" that have multiple answers.
- Consider Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the context provided by intersecting answers can help you choose between closely related synonyms. If an intersecting word only fits with, say, REVERE, then that's likely your answer.
- Think Beyond Religious Connotations: While "worship" is a strong synonym, remember that "idolize" can apply to celebrities, heroes, or even abstract ideals. Don't limit your thinking to just religious contexts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "idolize" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "idolize" typically refers to synonyms indicating deep admiration, adoration, or worship. Common answers include words like ADORE, REVERE, WORSHIP, or VENERATE, depending on the letter count and other cross-references.
Are there common traps when solving clues like "idolize"?
One common trap is focusing too narrowly on the religious connotation of 'worship' when a broader sense of 'deep admiration' is intended. Also, being precise with letter counts and checking for subtle differences in meaning among synonyms (e.g., between 'revere' and 'venerate') is crucial to avoid incorrect entries.
How can I improve my vocabulary for synonyms like "idolize"?
To improve your vocabulary for synonym-based clues, regularly use a thesaurus, read widely, and actively try to replace common words with more precise synonyms in your own writing. Paying attention to the nuances and contexts in which words like 'idolize' and its synonyms are used will significantly enhance your crossword-solving abilities.