‘Anti-Catholics would focus on certain issues, especially saints and Mariolatry, parochial schools, sacramentalism, convents, missions to the Indians, and Bible-reading in schools.’
‘Mary, Mother of God is a cautious probing by mainly Protestant thinkers who are keenly aware that most Protestants are inclined to assume that Mariology is synonymous with Mariolatry.’
‘Having said this, surely it is necessary to understand Sienese civic Mariolatry within the context of the astonishing popularity of Mary throughout Europe in the late Middle Ages.’
‘Instead, images of the Madonna abounded; they attest to a high point of Mariolatry during this period in the north.’
Origin
Early 17th century from Maria (Latin equivalent of ‘Mary’) + -latry, on the pattern of idolatry.
Are You Learning English? Here Are Our Top English Tips