An idol is not, and does not represent, God.
An idol is a physical entity, or physical representation of an entity, other than God which is worshiped (to wit prayed to, express spiritual adoration of, etc).
An idol is not, and does not represent, God.
To an idolater, an idol, the object of their worship, IS God. They are mistaken. As are we if we mistake not God for God. It is this mistake that makes it an icon, not the object itself.
If this object 'represents' God - to them - it is not an idol. It may represent a false God, but this is not the same as an idol. It can, however, be called an icon. There can also be icons, or representations, of the true God.
is worshiped (to wit prayed to, express spiritual adoration of, etc).
'Prayed to' as God, not prayed to as in 'ask' as in intercessory prayer.
Worship is for God alone. And here, Catholics have very specific worship: the Holy Eucharist.
Without a clear and specific idea of worship, it becomes much fuzzier. For example: what is spiritual adoration? Can you adore your spouse spiritually?
Or, does this resolve, again, to knowing the difference between God and not God?
As are we if we mistake not God for God. It is this mistake that makes it an icon idol, not the object itself.