heretic

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Dictionary definition of heretic

A person who holds beliefs or opinions that are contrary to the established or dominant religious or cultural doctrine.
"The Church labeled him a heretic for his unorthodox views."

Detailed meaning of heretic

This individual is often considered to be a threat to the authority and power of the religious or cultural institution, and their beliefs may be considered blasphemous or sacrilegious. In some cases, heretics have been subjected to persecution or punishment, including excommunication, imprisonment, or even death. Despite this, heretics have often played an important role in challenging the status quo and promoting new ideas and perspectives, ultimately leading to progress and change in society.

Example sentences containing heretic

1. In medieval times, being labeled a heretic could lead to severe consequences.
2. The church condemned him as a heretic for his unorthodox beliefs.
3. She was considered a heretic for challenging the traditional teachings of the society.
4. The heretic's ideas sparked controversy and debate among scholars.
5. Despite being labeled a heretic, he stood firm in his convictions.
6. The heretic's writings were banned and burned by the authorities.

History and etymology of heretic

The noun 'heretic' has its etymological roots in Greek and Latin. It is derived from the Greek word 'hairetikos,' which means 'able to choose' or 'a choice.' In Latin, it became 'haereticus,' referring to a person who chooses to hold beliefs or opinions that are contrary to the established or dominant religious or cultural doctrine. In English, 'heretic' denotes an individual who diverges from accepted religious or cultural beliefs, often in a way that challenges or questions the prevailing orthodoxy. Historically, heretics were often considered to be dissenters or those who held unorthodox views, leading to social, religious, or political conflicts. The term carries a connotation of deviation from established norms and doctrines and has been used to label those who challenge or reform prevailing systems of belief or practice.

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Further usage examples of heretic

1. Many were afraid to associate with the alleged heretic to avoid persecution.
2. His theories were seen as heretical, but they eventually revolutionized the field.
3. The heretic's voice was silenced by those who feared his influence.
4. The trial aimed to determine whether he was truly a heretic or not.
5. The heretic's ideas were ahead of their time and met with resistance.
6. She faced accusations of heresy and was branded a heretic by the church.
7. The heretic's teachings gained a small but devoted following.
8. The inquisitors were determined to root out any heretics within the community.
9. The heretic's writings were rediscovered centuries later and celebrated for their insight.
10. He was excommunicated after being declared a heretic by religious authorities.
11. The heretic's radical viewpoints challenged the status quo.
12. The fear of being labeled a heretic prevented some from expressing their true beliefs.
13. The heretic's ideas spread quietly underground despite persecution.
14. The heretic's legacy lives on as a symbol of intellectual courage and defiance.