The correct spelling depends on where you are. Both worshipper and worshiper are correct, but worshipper is mainly used in British English, while worshiper is the preferred American English spelling.
People often search for this keyword because they are unsure which form to use in writing, especially in emails, articles, or formal texts.
This guide will clarify the difference, explain the origin, and provide practical advice to avoid mistakes. If you write for a UK audience, a US audience, or globally, you will learn which spelling fits best.
Worshipper or Worshiper: Quick Answer
- Worshipper → Common in British English. Example: The church was full of devoted worshippers.
- Worshiper → Common in American English. Example: The temple attracted many worshipers every morning.
Both words mean the same thing: someone who shows devotion, respect, or reverence to a deity, leader, or object of worship. The difference is purely spelling based on regional preferences.
The Origin of Worshipper or Worshiper
The word comes from “worship” + “-er/-er”, meaning a person who practices worship.
- Worship itself originates from Old English “weorðscipe”, which means worthiness, honor, or respect.
- The suffix “-er” or “-er/-er” in English denotes a person performing an action.
The double “p” in worshipper is a result of English spelling rules: when adding a suffix like -er to a word ending in a single vowel + consonant (like worship), British English doubles the final consonant. American English often does not double the consonant, leading to worshiper.
British English vs American English Spelling
The spelling difference is primarily regional. Here is a clear comparison:
| Feature | British English | American English | Example |
| Double consonant with -er | Yes | No | worship → worshipper (UK) |
| Single consonant with -er | No | Yes | worship → worshiper (US) |
| Common usage | UK, Australia, Canada | US | “The worshippers gathered for service.” vs “The worshipers prayed quietly.” |
Key Rule: If the base word ends in a single consonant preceded by a single vowel, UK doubles the consonant before adding -er, while US often keeps it single.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- UK / Commonwealth audience → Use worshipper. Examples include the UK, Australia, New Zealand, India, and South Africa.
- US audience → Use worshiper. Common in American newspapers, emails, and formal writing.
- Global audience → Either is usually understood, but worshipper is safer because it matches traditional English spelling.
Tips for Writers:
- Always choose one form and be consistent in your text.
- Check your target audience before publishing.
- Use worshipper in formal, literary, or academic writing to avoid appearing informal.
Common Mistakes with Worshipper or Worshiper

Many people confuse these words with similar-sounding terms or make spelling errors. Common mistakes include:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
| Worhiper | worshipper / worshiper | Misspelling of “worship.” |
| Worshipers (UK) | worshippers | UK doubles the consonant in plural forms. |
| Wor-shippers | worshippers / worshipers | Hyphenation is unnecessary. |
| Worshiper (UK formal text) | worshipper | UK style prefers the double “p.” |
| Worshippers | worshippers | Extra letters added by mistake. |
Tip: Always proofread and decide on UK or US spelling style before starting.
Worshipper or Worshiper in Everyday Examples
Emails
- UK: Dear colleagues, the worshippers at the event were very respectful.
- US: The temple welcomed hundreds of worshipers on Sunday.
News Headlines
- UK: Thousands of worshippers attend the royal ceremony.
- US: Worshipers flock to the annual festival.
Social Media
- UK: So many worshippers shared their prayers online.
- US: Worshipers posted photos from the event.
Formal Writing
- UK: The cathedral was full of devout worshippers during the service.
- US: The church was crowded with worshipers from across the city.
Worshipper or Worshiper: Google Trends & Usage Data
Based on search data:
- UK & Commonwealth countries → “worshipper” dominates searches (70 80%).
- US → “worshiper” is more common (~65 75%).
- Global search → Both terms are recognized, but “worshipper” slightly leads in academic and religious contexts.
Observation: People search this term to ensure correct regional spelling in writing, academic papers, religious texts, and news articles.
Keyword Variations Comparison Table
| Variation | Meaning | Region |
| worshipper | Someone who worships | UK, Commonwealth |
| worshiper | Someone who worships | US |
| worshippers | Plural form | UK |
| worshipers | Plural form | US |
FAQs about Worshipper or Worshiper
1. Is “worshipper” wrong in American English?
No, it is understood, but worshiper is preferred in the US.
2. Can I use “worshiper” in the UK?
It is understood but not standard. UK writers usually use worshipper.
3. Which form is more formal?
Worshipper is often seen as more formal, especially in British English.
4. How do you spell the plural in UK English?
Worshippers double the “p” before adding -s.
5. How do you spell the plural in US English?
Worshipers single “p” before -s.
6. Does it matter in social media?
Not strictly, but consistency improves readability and professionalism.
7. Are there other similar words with the same spelling rules?
Yes, e.g., traveller (UK) vs traveler (US), counsellor vs counselor.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between worshipper and worshiper is simple once you know the regional rules.
Both words mean the same thing, referring to someone who shows devotion or respect. The spelling difference is based on If you are following British English or American English conventions.
- Use worshipper for UK, Commonwealth, and formal writing.
- Use worshiper for US audiences or American-standard publications.
- Always be consistent throughout your text to maintain professionalism.
- Check plural forms carefully: UK doubles the consonant (worshippers), US keeps it single (worshipers).
By following these rules, your writing will be clear, professional, and audience-appropriate. Knowing this small detail can improve the accuracy of your writing in emails, news articles, social media, and academic texts.
Even global audiences will recognize both forms, but matching your spelling to your readers’ expectations is key to avoiding mistakes and maintaining credibility.
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My name is James Whitmore.I am a language research writer. I explore the history and evolution of English words. I write detailed comparisons explaining why spellings change over time and how British and American English diverged. My articles add depth and credibility to grammar comparison topics.


