"Lionize" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
To lionize means to treat someone or something as a hero or to become excessively enthusiastic about something or someone. It can also imply loss of objectivity or excessive admiration, often to the point of idealization. For example: "The media has lionized her as a national heroine since her achievements in the Olympics."
To lionise someone or something means to praise or admire them excessively, often to the point of exaggeration. It can also imply seeking to elevate someone's status or reputation, often as a way to make oneself feel better or more powerful.