Many English learners are unsure whether worshipped or worshiped is the correct past tense of worship. The reason for the confusion is that different varieties of English follow different spelling conventions.
The good news is that both worshipped and worshiped are correct. The choice usually depends on whether you’re using British English or American English.
Quick Answer
- Worshipped is the preferred spelling in British English.
- Worshiped is the preferred spelling in American English.
- Both words mean the same thing.
- Both are accepted as the past tense and past participle of worship.
The Basic Difference
| Word | Preferred In |
|---|---|
| Worshipped | British English |
| Worshiped | American English |
Examples
- The villagers worshipped at the ancient temple. (British English)
- The villagers worshiped at the ancient temple. (American English)
Both sentences are correct.
What Does “Worship” Mean?
Worship is a verb that means:
- to show devotion to a god or deity
- to deeply admire or respect someone or something
- to take part in religious acts
Examples
- They worship every Sunday.
- Millions worship at holy sites around the world.
- He worships his favorite athlete.
What Does “Worshipped” Mean?
Worshipped is the British English past tense and past participle form.
Examples:
- They worshipped together at the church.
- Ancient people worshipped many gods.
- She worshipped the ground he walked on.
British English often doubles the final p before adding -ed.
What Does “Worshiped” Mean?
Worshiped is the American English past tense and past participle form.
Examples:
- They worshiped together every week.
- The community worshiped at the temple.
- He worshiped his grandfather.
American English usually keeps a single p before adding -ed.
Why Are There Two Spellings?
This difference comes from spelling rules in British and American English.
British English
British English commonly doubles the final consonant when adding endings such as:
- worship → worshipped
- worship → worshipping
- travel → travelled
- cancel → cancelled
American English
American English often prefers:
- worship → worshiped
- worship → worshiping
- travel → traveled
- cancel → canceled
Both systems are correct within their respective styles.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Worshipped | Worshiped |
|---|---|---|
| Correct English | Yes | Yes |
| Meaning | Same | Same |
| British English | Preferred | Less common |
| American English | Less common | Preferred |
| Formal Writing | Accepted | Accepted |
Which One Should You Use?
Use “Worshipped” When
You are writing:
- British English
- UK publications
- documents following British style guides
Examples:
- The pilgrims worshipped at the shrine.
- People worshipped there for centuries.
Use “Worshiped” When
You are writing:
- American English
- US publications
- documents following American style guides
Examples:
- They worshiped in the new church.
- The community worshiped together.
Common Mistakes People Make
Thinking One Spelling Is Wrong
Both spellings are correct.
Mixing British and American Styles
Choose one style and use it consistently.
For example:
- worshipped + travelled + cancelled (British)
- worshiped + traveled + canceled (American)
Assuming the Meaning Changes
The meaning remains exactly the same.
Everyday Examples
In Religious Contexts
- The people worshipped at the cathedral.
- The people worshiped at the cathedral.
In Historical Writing
- Ancient Egyptians worshipped many gods.
- Ancient Egyptians worshiped many gods.
In Figurative Language
- She worshipped her favorite singer.
- She worshiped her favorite singer.
Easy Memory Trick
Think:
- British English likes double consonants: worshipped
- American English often prefers single consonants: worshiped
Both are correct, so choose the version that matches your writing style.
Practice Sentences
Choose the spelling that matches the style.
British English
- They _____ together every week.
- Ancient people _____ many deities.
Answers:
- worshipped
- worshipped
American English
- They _____ together every week.
- Ancient people _____ many deities.
Answers:
- worshiped
- worshiped
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “worshipped” correct?
Yes.
It is the preferred British English spelling.
Is “worshiped” correct?
Yes.
It is the preferred American English spelling.
Do they have different meanings?
No.
They mean exactly the same thing.
Which spelling is more common worldwide?
Both are widely used, though the preference depends on the region.
What about “worshipping” and “worshiping”?
The same pattern applies:
- worshipping (British)
- worshiping (American)
Which spelling should I use?
Use the spelling that matches the variety of English you’re writing.
Conclusion
The difference between worshipped and worshiped is a matter of regional spelling, not meaning.
- Worshipped is preferred in British English.
- Worshiped is preferred in American English.
- Both are correct and widely accepted.
- The meaning remains the same regardless of which spelling you choose.
A simple rule to remember is:
Use “worshipped” for British English and “worshiped” for American English, but know that both are correct.
