worshipper
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /wˈɜːʃɪpə/
US
- /ˈwɜrʃɪpər/noun
Description
- Devoted believer
- Person at prayer
- Deep admirer
- Religious devotee
A worshipper is someone who shows deep love, respect, or devotion, usually in a religious way. You will often see the word used for a person who prays in a church, temple, mosque, or another holy place. It suggests more than simple belief; it points to active devotion shown through prayer, ritual, song, or other acts of faith. The word can also be used more broadly for someone who admires a person or thing so strongly that it feels almost like worship.
You might read about worshippers gathering for a festival, bowing in prayer, or singing together during a service. In a less literal sense, the word can describe someone who is extremely devoted to a singer, a leader, an idea, or even a way of life. Even then, it still carries the sense of very strong admiration rather than ordinary liking.
The word "worshipper" refers to a person who shows deep reverence, love, or devotion toward a god, a sacred being, or something treated as holy. Most often, it is used in religious contexts for people who take part in worship through prayer, ritual, singing, offerings, or other acts of faith. For example, worshippers may gather at a temple for a festival, kneel in prayer in a church, or join a service at a mosque. In this main sense, the word suggests active and heartfelt religious practice, not just private belief.
The term can also be used in a broader, figurative way. In that sense, it describes someone whose admiration is so strong that it seems almost religious. A person might be called a worshipper of fame, beauty, money, nature, or a public figure. This use is often slightly dramatic or poetic, and it suggests devotion that goes beyond normal interest or approval.
Historically, the word has long been linked to religious communities and ceremonies, including ancient rites and modern services. In everyday modern English, though, it can move outside religion when a writer wants to stress the strength of someone's devotion. Whether used literally or figuratively, a worshipper is not simply someone who likes or respects something. The word points to a deeper level of devotion, shown in feeling, action, and loyalty.
Examples
- 1
Temple service
The temple was already full of worshippers when we arrived.
- 2
Regular attendance
She has been a regular worshipper at the local mosque for years.
Pattern
regular worshipper at + place
someone who often goes there for worship
- 3
Shrine visitors
Volunteers handed out water to worshippers waiting outside the shrine.
- 4
Figurative use
He was never a worshipper of fame or money.
Pattern
worshipper of + thing
someone who admires it too much
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- worshippernoun
Forms
- worshipperspluralnoun