cult

n. a religious group with extreme beliefs that are different from most people's, often led by one powerful person.

n. a religious or philosophical group characterized by unorthodox beliefs, extreme devotion to a charismatic leader, and isolation from mainstream society.

“The family was worried when their son joined a mysterious cult and stopped calling them.”

“Sociologists often distinguish between a new religious movement and a cult based on the degree of control the leadership exerts over the members' private lives.”

n. a group of people who are very obsessed with a specific person, idea, or activity.

n. a group of people exhibiting intense, often obsessive, admiration for a particular person, idea, or fashion.

“There is a cult of personality around the tech CEO, with fans buying everything he suggests.”

“The author has developed a small cult of followers who dissect every cryptic clue hidden within her experimental novels.”

Informal

n. the system of religious worship and ceremonies used in the past for a specific god.

n. a system of religious veneration and ritual directed toward a particular figure or object, especially within a historical polytheistic framework.

“Archaeologists found evidence of an ancient cult that worshipped the sun.”

“The cult of Mithras was particularly popular among Roman soldiers stationed in the northern provinces during the second century.”

Academic · Formal

adj. describes something that is very popular with a small, loyal group of people but not with everyone.

adj. denoting something that has a small but very dedicated and passionate fan base.

“The 1980s movie was a box office failure, but it became a cult classic years later.”

“Despite poor initial reviews, the game achieved cult status due to its unique mechanics and dark, atmospheric storytelling.”