'idolater' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'idololatra', where 'idolon' meant 'image' and 'latreia' meant 'worship'.

'idolater' changed from the Old French word 'idolatre' (from Late Latin 'idololatra' and Greek 'eidōlolatrēs') and eventually became the modern English word 'idolater' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'one who worships idols' in a strictly religious sense, but over time it has also taken on a figurative meaning of 'someone who shows excessive admiration' and retains both senses today.