Cult
WordNet

noun


(1)   An interest followed with exaggerated zeal
"He always follows the latest fads"
"It was all the rage that season"
(2)   A system of religious beliefs and rituals
"Devoted to the cultus of the Blessed Virgin"
(3)   Adherents of an exclusive system of religious beliefs and practices
WiktionaryText

Etymology


From , , or , , , .

Noun



  1. A group or doctrine with religious, philosophical or cultural identity sometimes viewed as a sect, often existent on the margins of society and/or exploitative towards its members.
  2. Devotion to a saint.

Adjective



  1. Of, or relating to a cult.
  2. Enjoyed by a small, loyal group.
    a cult horror movie

Usage notes


The term has a positive connotation for groups of art, music, writing, fiction, and fashion devotees, but a negative connotation for new religious, extreme political, questionable therapeutic, and pyramidal business groups.
 
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