Cool MateCult
UK /["/kʌlt/"]/US /["/kʌlt/"]/
Definition
a way of life, an attitude, an idea, etc. that has become very popular
In simple words: A group of people with beliefs that are different from the normal society, often with a leader.
Examples
- the cult of physical fitness
- the cult of youth
- Their son ran away from home and joined a cult.
- the members of a religious cult
- the ancient cult of ancestor worship
Usage notes
Use 'cult' to describe groups with extreme beliefs, often negative. Avoid in formal contexts unless discussing sociology or religion.
Grammar pattern
cult + of + belief system
Memory hint
Think of 'cult' as a 'secret huddle' of unusual beliefs.
Collocations
- personality
- figure
- hero
- icon
- cult of
- religious
- pagan
- satanic
- leader
- member
- image
- religious
- pagan
- satanic
- leader
- member
- image
Synonyms
- sect
- clique
- movement
- faction
- group
Antonyms
- mainstream
- conventional
- orthodox
Common mistakes
- Confuse 'cult' with 'culture' despite their different meanings.
- Overuse 'cult' to describe any new group or belief.
- Assume all cults are religious; some may be social or political.