noun
- religious groups with beliefs or practices regarded as strange or sinister
- systems of religious worship and ritual
- great devotion to a person, idea, or thing
Usage: often negative connotation
Usage: formal; academic
Examples
- The documentary exposed several dangerous cults operating in the region.
- Ancient mystery cults practiced secret rituals.
- She studied the fertility cults of early civilizations.
- The movie developed cults of devoted fans.
- Personality cults often form around charismatic leaders.
- The book examines various religious cults throughout history.