noun
cult
kuhlt
noun
1
A group organized around an unconventional set of religious or philosophical beliefs, often isolating members from outside society under a controlling leader.
"Former members described how the cult cut them off from their families."
2
A strong following of devoted fans built around a particular person, idea, or work.
"The film flopped in theaters but later gained a cult following."
How to Use Cult
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a controlling, isolating belief group, or a smaller but intensely devoted fan base.
Common pairings
cult following
cult leader
cult classic
Word Forms
cults plural
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Former members described how the _____ cut them off from their families.
Etymology
From French culte, from Latin cultus ("care, worship"), from colere ("to cultivate, tend").