Definition:
"Hero worship" is a noun that means to admire or look up to someone very much, often a person who is seen as a great leader, performer, or someone who has achieved something extraordinary. This admiration can sometimes be so strong that it becomes almost uncritical or blind.
In advanced contexts, "hero worship" can also refer to the psychological aspects of admiration, discussing how it may lead to unrealistic expectations or disappointment when the admired figure is found to have flaws.
"Hero worship" specifically refers to the admiration of individuals, but it can also imply a lack of critical thinking about the person being admired. It does not typically refer to general admiration for ideas or groups.
While there aren't direct idioms or phrasal verbs that correspond exactly to "hero worship," you might encounter phrases like: - "Put someone on a pedestal" – This means to admire someone so much that you see them as perfect, similar to hero worship. - "Look up to" – To admire or respect someone.
"Hero worship" conveys a strong admiration for someone considered exceptional, often without seeing their flaws. It can inspire people but may also lead to unrealistic expectations.