I″dol (?), n. [OE. idole, F. idole, L. idolum, fr. Gr. �, fr. � that which is seen, the form, shape, figure, fr. � to see. See Wit, and cf. Eidolon.] 1. An image or representation of anything.
Do her adore with sacred reverence,
As th' idol of her maker's great magnificence. Spenser.
2. An image of a divinity; a representation or symbol of a deity or any other being or thing, made or used as an object of worship; a similitude of a false god.
That they should not worship devils, and idols of gold. Rev. ix. 20.
3. That on which the affections are strongly (often excessively) set; an object of passionate devotion; a person or thing greatly loved or adored.
The soldier's god and people's idol. Denham.
4. A false notion or conception; a fallacy. Bacon.
The idols of preconceived opinion. Coleridge.