Good question to think about. Are all religions nothing but cults. For example: the Christians sure were a cult to the Romans. The Mormons sure a a cult to the Christians. Is the idea of a religious cult nothing but something different then your own religion?
According to the Dictionary a Cult is simply a religion. That definition does not lay any negative connotations on the word. If by cult you mean that, fine. If by cult you mean some other definition provide your definition.
A cult is, basically, a religion that isn't large enough, or powerful enough, yet, to forcibly inflict itself on anyone that doesn't want to deal with it.
That is YOUR definition. And even assuming you were right, no longer applies to Mormons or Jehovah Witnesses as they have missionaries all over the world "inflicting" themselves on all kind of people.
You don't see it, but he was actually agreeing with your dictionary definition and that of the OP: that the word "cult" is subjective.
No he is claiming that all religion is an affront to intelligent people. And that cults are the least of them.
You are correct in your assessment, but I must admit gunny is correct about my attitude towards religions. Though she? is basing that, partially, on comments I have made in other threads.