idolize

verb (used with object), i·dol·ized, i·dol·iz·ing.

1. to regard with blind adoration, devotion, etc.
2. to worship as a god.

verb (used without object), i·dol·ized, i·dol·iz·ing.

3. to practice idolatry: to idolize as did ancient Greece and Rome.

verb

1. (tr) to admire or revere greatly
2. (tr) to worship as an idol
3. (intr) to worship idols

v.

1590s, from idol + -ize. Related: Idolized; idolizing.