Mariolatry

American  

[mair-ee-ol-uh-tree] / ˌmɛər iˈɒl ə tri /

noun

1. excessive (and proscribed) veneration of the Virgin Mary, especially in forms appropriate to God.

2. veneration of women.

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Mariolatry British  

/ ˌmɛərɪˈɒlətrɪ /

noun

1. derogatory exaggerated veneration of the Virgin Mary

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• Mariolatrous
  adjective
• Mariolater
  noun

Etymology

Origin of Mariolatry

First recorded in 1605–15; Mary + -o- + -latry

Example Sentences

Of the great passions which gave life to the Middle Ages, that of religious enthusiasm had degenerated into the conceits of Mariolatry, that of war into the extravagances of Chivalry.

From History of the English People, Volume II The Charter, 1216-1307; The Parliament, 1307-1400 by Green, John Richard

The Church itself never quite accepted the full claims of what was called Mariolatry.

From Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres by Adams, Henry

I do not quite understand why Chaucer must have 'passed through' this fit of devotion; as if he had Mariolatry like the measles.

From Gilbert Keith Chesterton by Ward, Maisie

To her, until Mariolatry set in with full intensity, the name of Sant' Iago was a tower of strength.

From An Architect's Note-Book in Spain principally illustrating the domestic architecture of that country. by Wyatt, Matthew Digby

The Mystic City of God is one of the most characteristic monuments of Mariolatry, and has continued to be much in favour with supporters of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception.

From The Project Gutenberg Encyclopedia Volume 1 of 28 by Project Gutenberg