'idolize' originates from Greek via Latin and French, specifically the word 'eidolon', where 'eidolon' meant 'image, apparition'.

'idolize' changed from Medieval Latin 'idolizare' and Old French 'idoliser' and eventually became the modern English word 'idolize'.

Initially, it meant 'to worship an image or representation', but over time it evolved into the current meaning 'to admire or adore excessively; to treat as an idol'.