Polytheistic
adjective
Relating to or that shows belief in more than one god.
Ancient Greek society was predominantly polytheistic.

Often appears as...
- polytheistic religions
- polytheistic society
Usage tips
Academic
adjective
Relating to or that shows belief in more than one god.
Ancient Greek society was predominantly polytheistic.

Often appears as...
- polytheistic religions
- polytheistic society
Usage tips
Academic
Definition 1 of 1

Historical Context
Understanding past civilizations is key as 'polytheistic' often relates to historical societies with multiple gods.

The polytheistic traditions of the Mayans involved various ceremonies and rituals.
Modern Usage
'Polytheistic' is less common today but still describes religions like Hinduism with multiple gods.

Contemporary Hindu communities sustain their ancient polytheistic customs.
Implicit Contrast
Using 'polytheistic' often implies a contrast with monotheistic beliefs, which worship one god.

In contrast to the monotheistic faiths, the local tribe was strictly polytheistic.
Compare with
animisticidolatormythologistpaganpantheisticshaman
Video examples
The five major world...
a revolutionary concept in the polytheistic world of that time, they would have land and many descendants. From this promise came the land of Israel and the chosen people, but staying in that land and keeping those people together was going to be very difficult.
Video examples
The five major world...
a revolutionary concept in the polytheistic world of that time, they would have land and many descendants. From this promise came the land of Israel and the chosen people, but staying in that land and keeping those people together was going to be very difficult.
Example 1 of 1
Quote examples
Natalie Portman
American Actress
Well, right now, I'm very fascinated with 1920s Berlin. I mean, probably the more interesting thing would be to go to the beginning of civilization or precivilization - like polytheistic times. It would be interesting to see what came before modern religion and culture - what circumstances created the environment or the need for it.

Quote examples
Ann Leckie
American Author
It's a common part of the narrative of the history of Christianity that it was 'real' religion that involved real spirituality and real faith, and that's why it's completely superseded the more pagan polytheistic practices.

Quote examples
Diana Gabaldon
American Author
When I am at home writing, I have all the power. I am God. But TV is a polytheistic universe.

Quote examples
Natalie Portman
American Actress
Well, right now, I'm very fascinated with 1920s Berlin. I mean, probably the more interesting thing would be to go to the beginning of civilization or precivilization - like polytheistic times. It would be interesting to see what came before modern religion and culture - what circumstances created the environment or the need for it.

Quote examples
Ann Leckie
American Author
It's a common part of the narrative of the history of Christianity that it was 'real' religion that involved real spirituality and real faith, and that's why it's completely superseded the more pagan polytheistic practices.

Quote examples
Diana Gabaldon
American Author
When I am at home writing, I have all the power. I am God. But TV is a polytheistic universe.

Example 1 of 3
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