cult

Everyday

1. A small religious group with unusual beliefs, often controlled by one strong leader; often used as a negative word. tree →
2. Great admiration for a person, thing or idea that is very popular with a group (a cult of fitness). tree →
3. (adjective) Loved by a small group of fans (a cult film). tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life: «cult classic» films or shows with devoted fans. In safety: dangerous cults trick people and cut them off from family; be careful of groups that demand secrecy. In history: ancient cults worshipped gods.

Examples

• The film became a cult classic. tree →
• The band has a cult following. tree →
• The cult leader made his followers give him their money. tree →
• Ancient Romans had many cults for different gods. tree →
• That show is a cult favourite in Australia. tree →
• Be wary of any group that tells you to keep secrets from family. tree →

Note

Not the same as «culture». As an adjective (cult film) it is positive; as a noun about a group it is usually negative.