Worshiper vs. Worshipper: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Aimie Carlson || Updated on May 20, 2024
"Worshiper" and "worshipper" are alternative spellings of the same word, referring to someone who practices worship. "Worshiper" is preferred in American English, while "worshipper" is more common in British English.
Key Differences
"Worshiper" is the American English spelling of the word referring to a person who engages in worship, whether in a religious or secular context. This form is commonly used in the United States and aligns with the general American tendency to simplify double consonants. "Worshipper," on the other hand, is the British English spelling of the same word. It is prevalent in the United Kingdom and other regions that follow British spelling conventions. This form retains the double 'p,' which is more consistent with traditional English spelling rules.
Both "worshiper" and "worshipper" denote an individual who shows reverence and adoration, typically towards a deity or divine figure. Despite the difference in spelling, the meaning remains identical.
In written English, the choice between "worshiper" and "worshipper" usually depends on the regional spelling preference of the writer or the intended audience. Publications, organizations, and educational institutions may adopt one form over the other based on their style guides or regional norms.
Comparison Chart
Spelling Variant
American English
British English
Common Usage
United States
United Kingdom and other British English regions
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Spelling Convention
Simplified, single 'p'
Traditional, double 'p'
Context
General use in American texts
General use in British texts
Meaning
Identical - a person who worships
Identical - a person who worships
Worshiper and Worshipper Definitions
Worshiper
A person who shows reverence to a deity.
As a devoted worshiper, she prayed daily.
Worshipper
A person who shows reverence to a deity.
Worshippers gathered at the mosque for evening prayers.
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Worshiper
Someone who admires or loves something deeply.
He was a worshiper of classical music.
Worshipper
An individual engaged in acts of worship.
The church was crowded with worshippers on Easter Sunday.
Worshiper
Someone who practices worship.
The worshiper attended the Sunday service regularly.
Worshipper
Someone who admires or loves something deeply.
She was a worshipper of nature, often hiking in the mountains.
Worshiper
The reverent love and devotion accorded a deity, an idol, or a sacred object.
Worshipper
A participant in religious ceremonies.
The worshippers lit candles and offered prayers.
Worshiper
The ceremonies, prayers, or other religious forms by which this love is expressed
A chapel where worship is held daily.
Worshipper
The reverent love and devotion accorded a deity, an idol, or a sacred object.
Worshiper
Ardent admiration or love; adoration
The worship of celebrities.
Worshipper
The ceremonies, prayers, or other religious forms by which this love is expressed
A chapel where worship is held daily.
Worshiper
Often Worship Chiefly British Used as a form of address for magistrates, mayors, and certain other dignitaries
Your Worship.
Worshipper
Ardent admiration or love; adoration
The worship of celebrities.
Worshiper
To honor and love as a deity.
Worshipper
Often Worship Chiefly British Used as a form of address for magistrates, mayors, and certain other dignitaries
Your Worship.
Worshiper
To regard with ardent or adoring esteem or devotion.
Worshipper
To honor and love as a deity.
Worshiper
(American spelling) worshipper
Worshipper
To regard with ardent or adoring esteem or devotion.
Worshiper
One who worships; one who pays divine honors to any being or thing; one who adores.
Worshipper
A person who worships, especially at a place of assembly for religious services.
The temple was filled with worshippers.
Worshiper
Someone who admires too much to recognize faults
Worshipper
A person who has religious faith
Worshiper
A person who has religious faith
Worshipper
Someone who admires too much to recognize faults
Worshiper
An individual engaged in acts of worship.
The temple was filled with worshipers during the festival.
Worshipper
Someone who practices worship.
The worshipper knelt in prayer at the altar.
Worshiper
A participant in religious ceremonies.
The worshipers sang hymns together in the church.
FAQs
Is there any difference in meaning between "worshiper" and "worshipper"?
No, both words have the same meaning and refer to a person who practices worship.
Can "worshiper" be used in British English?
While not common, "worshiper" might be understood but is generally considered incorrect in British English.
Which spelling is correct in American English?
"Worshiper" is the correct and preferred spelling in American English.
Do "worshiper" and "worshipper" have different pronunciations?
No, both words are pronounced the same way.
Can "worshipper" be used in American English?
"Worshipper" is less common and typically considered a British variant in American English.
Is one spelling older than the other?
"Worshipper" follows older English spelling conventions, while "worshiper" is a simplified American adaptation.
Are there other words with similar American and British spelling differences?
Yes, examples include "traveler" (American) and "traveller" (British), "center" (American) and "centre" (British).
What is the difference between "worshiper" and "worshipper"?
"Worshiper" is the American English spelling, while "worshipper" is the British English spelling of the same word.
Which form should I use in academic writing?
Use the form that aligns with the spelling conventions of the intended audience or the guidelines provided by your institution.
Which spelling is correct in British English?
"Worshipper" is the correct and preferred spelling in British English.
How do style guides address these spellings?
Style guides typically recommend "worshiper" for American English and "worshipper" for British English.
Is "worshipper" used in Canadian English?
Canadian English often follows British conventions, so "worshipper" is commonly used.
Which form is more commonly used globally?
"Worshipper" might be more globally recognized due to the influence of British English, but "worshiper" is predominant in American English contexts.
Why does American English simplify spellings like "worshiper"?
American English often simplifies spellings to make words easier to write and learn.
Is the use of "worshipper" declining in American English?
Yes, "worshipper" is less common in American English as "worshiper" is the preferred form.
Are both spellings accepted in international English?
Both spellings are accepted, but the choice usually depends on the regional preference of the writer or publication.
Are there any contexts where one form is preferred over the other?
In American contexts, "worshiper" is preferred, while in British contexts, "worshipper" is preferred.
Does the use of "worshiper" vs. "worshipper" affect readability?
The difference is minor, but consistency in spelling is important for readability and professionalism.
What should I consider when choosing between "worshiper" and "worshipper"?
Consider your audience and the regional spelling conventions relevant to them.
Does the choice of spelling impact search engine results?
It might slightly affect search engine results, as different spellings could yield different results based on regional preferences.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
