hagiographers

/ˌhæɡiˈɑɡrəfərz/

NOUN

1. Writers of saints' biographies

People who write biographies or accounts of the lives, virtues, deeds, and experiences of saints or other revered religious figures.

1.1. Religious biography and historical documentation

Refers to authors who document the lives, teachings, achievements, and spiritual experiences of saints, often preserving religious traditions and historical accounts.

Synonyms

  • annalists
  • archivists
  • biographers
  • chroniclers
  • chronologists
  • genealogists
  • historians

Examples

  • The library contained a collection of writings by various hagiographers.
  • Throughout history, many hagiographers have celebrated the lives of revered figures.
  • The monastery's archives were a treasure trove for aspiring hagiographers.
  • Scholars often debate the perspectives and biases of different hagiographers.
  • The conference brought together renowned hagiographers to discuss their research.

Related Words

NOUN

2. Writers who excessively praise or idealize people

People who write excessively admiring or flattering accounts of someone, portraying that person as exceptionally virtuous or saintlike while minimizing their shortcomings.

2.1. Excessive praise and idealized portrayals

Used figuratively or critically for writers who present individuals in an overly favorable, reverential, or uncritical manner, rather than providing balanced accounts.

Synonyms

  • annalists
  • biographers
  • chroniclers
  • historians

Examples

  • The politician's hagiographers ignored several controversies in their flattering accounts.
  • Critics accused the writers of being hagiographers rather than impartial biographers.
  • The historical figures were portrayed as flawless heroes by their devoted hagiographers.

Related Words