The Valar

I noticed that some people call the Valar "gods". I disagree, and I want to know what you think. I did a little research and this is what I found:
(found these in the back of the Silmarillionin the Index of Names)
Valar

Valar'Those with Powers' (singular Vala; given to tose great Ainur who entered Eä at the beginning of Time, and assumed the functionof gaurding and governing Arda.

Ainur

Ainur 'The Holy Ones' (singular Ainu; the first beings created by Ilúvatar, the 'order' of the Valar and Maiar, made before Eä.

Maiar

Maiar Ainur of lesser degree than the Valar (singular Maia

Ilúvatar

Ilúvatar 'Father of All', Eru

Eru

Eru 'The One', 'He that is Alone': Ilúvatar.

I would like to know your opinion on this.