Have you ever paused while writing and thought, “Wait, is it worshiped or worshipped?” You’re not alone!
These two spellings confuse many English learners — and even native speakers — because both look right and sound the same.
The good news? Both worshiped and worshipped are correct! The difference lies in where you’re writing — the United States or the United Kingdom.
In this simple guide, we’ll explain:
- The meaning of worship
- The difference between worshiped and worshipped
- When to use each spelling correctly
- Easy examples, memory tips, and a quick recap chart
By the end, you’ll never be unsure about this pair again — even if you’re just starting to learn English!
📖 What Does Each Word Mean?
🕊️ What Does Worshiped Mean?
Definition:
Worshiped is the past tense and past participle of the verb worship — used mainly in American English.
Meaning:
To show love, deep respect, or devotion — often toward God, a person, or something admired greatly.
Part of speech: Verb (past tense)
Examples:
- The villagers worshiped the rising sun.
- She worshiped her grandmother for her kindness.
- Many fans worshiped the singer as a hero.
🕊️ What Does Worshipped Mean?
Definition:
Worshipped is also the past tense and past participle of worship — but it’s used mainly in British English.
Meaning:
Exactly the same as worshiped: to show strong love, respect, or admiration.
Part of speech: Verb (past tense)
Examples:
- The people worshipped in the old church every Sunday.
- Children worshipped their favorite cartoon character.
- The hero was worshipped by the whole town.
⚖️ The Key Difference Between Worshiped and Worshipped
Here’s a simple way to remember:
| Feature | Worshiped 🇺🇸 | Worshipped 🇬🇧 |
|---|---|---|
| Region / Dialect | American English | British English |
| Spelling Pattern | One “p” | Double “p” |
| Meaning | Same (no change) | Same (no change) |
| Example Sentence | They worshiped at the temple. | They worshipped at the temple. |
| Pronunciation | /ˈwɜːrʃɪpt/ (same) | /ˈwɜːrʃɪpt/ (same) |
✅ Quick Tip:
If you write color instead of colour, use worshiped.
If you write colour instead of color, use worshipped.
Simple, right?
❌ Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Mixing the styles
Incorrect: The people worshipped their freedom in New York.
Correct: The people worshiped their freedom in New York. ✅
Why: American English uses one “p.”
Mistake 2: Thinking one is wrong
Many learners think worshiped is wrong because it “looks short.”
But remember — both are correct! The spelling just depends on your region or style guide.
Mistake 3: Using both forms in one text
Incorrect: She worshiped God and worshipped nature.
Correct: Be consistent — choose one form throughout your writing. ✅
✍️ When to Use Worshiped
Use worshiped when writing in American English.
That includes:
- U.S. schools and universities
- American newspapers or books
- International business documents written in U.S. style
Examples:
- The team worshiped their coach for his dedication.
- They worshiped every Sunday morning.
- Students worshiped famous inventors for their creativity.
- The crewworshiped the spirits of the forest.
- He worshiped her as if she were a goddess.
🧠 Memory Trick:
Think of “USA” — U for “one p.”
So, Worshiped = USA → One P.
✍️ When to Use Worshipped
Use worshipped when writing in British English, Australian English, or Canadian English (except some Canadian style guides that accept both).
Examples:
- The villagers worshipped the goddess at dawn.
- Fans worshipped the football star.
- The people worshipped at the ancient temple.
- He worshipped his mother’s strength and patience.
- They worshipped art and beauty above all else.
🧠 Memory Trick:
Think of “Double letters, double tea” — because British tea 🍵 and double p go together!
So, Worshipped = British → Double P.
🔁 Quick Recap: Worshiped vs Worshipped
- ✅ Both are correct.
- 🇺🇸 Worshiped → American English → one “p”
- 🇬🇧 Worshipped → British English → double “p”
- ✍️ Always stay consistent with your chosen form.
- 💡 Meanings and pronunciation are identical.
🌍 Advanced Tips and Origin
The word worship comes from the Old English word “weorthscipe,” meaning worthiness or respect.
Over centuries, the spelling simplified, but the meaning stayed the same.
In formal writing, such as essays, religious texts, or academic work:
- Use worshiped if following APA or Chicago (American) style.
- Use worshipped if following Oxford or Cambridge (British) style.
In online writing or social media, you might see both — but being consistent shows good grammar awareness.
🧠 Mini Quiz: Test Yourself!
Fill in the blanks with worshiped or worshipped.
- The crew________ the sun as their god.
- She ________ her teacher for his wisdom.
- In ancient times, people ________ many gods.
- They ________ together at the temple every Sunday.
- The artist was ________ for his creative mind.
- My grandparents ________ simplicity and peace.
- He ________ his country above everything else.
(Answers: 1–7 can use either spelling — worshiped for U.S. English or worshipped for British English.)
❓ FAQs About Worshiped vs Worshipped
1. Is worshiped wrong spelling?
No, worshiped is correct in American English. Worshipped is correct in British English.
2. Why do British spellings have double “p”?
British English often doubles the final consonant before adding “-ed” when the last syllable is unstressed (e.g., travel → travelled, worship → worshipped).
3. Which should I use in academic writing?
Follow your style guide:
- American = worshiped
- British = worshipped
4. Do both mean the same thing?
Yes, both mean “to show deep respect or love.”
5. Can I use them interchangeably?
Only if your audience doesn’t mind mixed spelling — but it’s best to stay consistent throughout your writing.
💬 Conclusion
So, whether you write worshiped or worshipped, you’re doing it right — as long as you stick to one style!
Remember: both spellings mean to show love, honor, or devotion, and the only real difference is where you’re writing from.
Next time you see these two forms, smile — because you now know the secret behind them!
Keep practicing small grammar differences like this every day, and your English will grow stronger and more confident.

Henry Vale is a tech-savvy content creator at WordContrast.com, known for his in-depth guides and how-to articles. With a background in digital media and a passion for innovation, Henry focuses on simplifying technology for everyday users. His mission is to empower readers with clear, actionable knowledge they can use to improve their digital lives.