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apostate

noun

/əˈpɔsteɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of apostate

A person who has abandoned or renounced their religious or political beliefs or principles.
"The church leaders declared him an apostate after he openly criticized their teachings."

Detailed meaning of apostate

Apostates are typically seen as having turned away from their former faith or allegiance, often in a dramatic or public way. The term is often used in a pejorative sense to describe someone who is viewed as having betrayed their community or values. In some religious contexts, apostasy is considered a serious sin or even a crime, and apostates may face ostracism, persecution, or even physical harm. Despite its negative connotations, some people embrace the label of apostate as a badge of honor, seeing themselves as having liberated themselves from dogma or oppression. Overall, the term "apostate" carries a complex set of meanings that reflect the fraught relationships between individuals, communities, and systems of belief.

Example sentences containing apostate

1. The religious community was shocked when he declared himself an apostate.
2. The apostate's departure from the church led to strained relationships with family and friends.
3. The novel's protagonist struggled with his identity as an apostate in a devout society.
4. The apostate's writings questioned the teachings of his former faith.
5. She faced backlash from her former religious community after being labeled an apostate.
6. The apostate's journey of self-discovery took him away from the beliefs he once held.

History and etymology of apostate

The noun 'apostate' has its etymological roots in both Latin and Greek. It is derived from the Latin word 'apostata,' which is rooted in the Greek term 'apostatēs,' meaning 'a runaway slave' or 'a deserter.' In English, 'apostate' refers to a person who has abandoned or renounced their religious or political beliefs or principles. It carries a connotation of betrayal or abandonment of a previously held faith or allegiance. 'Apostate' is often used in the context of religion to describe individuals who have left their faith, and in political contexts, it can describe those who have abandoned their ideological or party affiliations. It underscores the significant and sometimes contentious nature of the departure from established beliefs or systems of thought.

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Further usage examples of apostate

1. The documentary explored the experiences of apostates from various religious backgrounds.
2. The apostate's story was one of breaking free from a strict upbringing.
3. The apostate's interview shed light on the challenges of leaving a deeply ingrained faith.
4. The apostate found solace in connecting with others who shared similar experiences.
5. The support group provided a safe space for apostates to share their stories.
6. The apostate's decision to openly discuss his journey sparked important conversations.
7. The apostate's memoir detailed his path from believer to skeptic.
8. The apostate's involvement in advocacy work aimed to protect the rights of those who leave their faith.
9. The apostate's blog offered insights into the emotional struggles of leaving a religious community.
10. The apostate's book became a resource for those seeking guidance after leaving their faith.
11. The apostate's experience inspired him to create a platform for open dialogue and understanding.
12. The apostate's art expressed his complex feelings about his former beliefs.
13. The apostate's story resonated with others who were also questioning their faith.
14. The apostate's journey toward self-acceptance was a testament to the power of personal growth.