golden calf

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The image called to mind the golden calf of Abrahamic religious texts, worshipped by the Israelites to Moses’—and God’s—dismay.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

"Let me say this plainly: this is not a golden calf," he said later that night on X, referring to the Old Testament idol that famously made Moses irate after he received the Commandments.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

The focus on the fate of the golden calf is understandable.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2023

Since then, the concept of the worshiping of a "golden calf" has become a stand-in for a supreme act of apostasy, the rejection of a faith once confessed.

From Salon • Nov. 7, 2020

Trotter sucked in her breath and glowered down at her like Moses at the Israelites’ golden calf.

From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson