Meaning of the word moloch in English

What does moloch mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

moloch

US /ˈmoʊlɑːk/
UK /ˈməʊ.lɒk/
"moloch" picture

Noun

1.

a Canaanite god to whom children were sacrificed, mentioned in the Old Testament

Example:
Ancient texts describe the worship of Moloch with horrific rituals.
The prophet condemned the worship of Moloch as an abomination.
2.

a person or thing to which extreme or horrific sacrifices are made, especially for the sake of an abstract ideal

Example:
The relentless pursuit of profit became a modern Moloch, devouring human well-being.
The war machine was a Moloch that demanded countless lives.