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infidel

noun

/ˈɪnfɪˌdɛl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of infidel

A person who does not believe in a particular religion or set of religious beliefs.
"The infidel refused to convert to the dominant religion."

Detailed meaning of infidel

Historically, the term has been used as a pejorative or derogatory term, particularly by members of religious groups who view those outside their faith as being morally inferior or misguided. In some contexts, the term has been used more broadly to refer to individuals who are seen as being outside of the mainstream or dominant culture or society. However, in modern usage, the term is often considered offensive and is not typically used in polite conversation. Overall, the noun "infidel" suggests the idea of a person who does not share a particular set of religious beliefs, and it carries connotations of moral or cultural difference or conflict.

Example sentences containing infidel

1. The cleric condemned him as an infidel for rejecting their faith.
2. In some societies, being labeled an infidel can lead to persecution.
3. Historically, religious wars were often waged against infidels.
4. The missionary aimed to convert the indigenous infidel.
5. The king ordered the expulsion of all infidels from his kingdom.
6. Interfaith dialogue can bridge gaps between believers and infidels.

History and etymology of infidel

The noun 'infidel' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'infidelis,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'not,' and 'fidelis,' meaning 'faithful' or 'believing.' In its original Latin form, 'infidelis' referred to someone who was not faithful to a particular belief system or religion. As the term evolved, it came to denote a person who does not believe in a particular religion or set of religious beliefs, often with a connotation of disbelief or rejection of the dominant faith. 'Infidel' has been historically used in various religious contexts to describe those who hold different or opposing religious views. The etymology of 'infidel' reflects its historical association with matters of faith and belief, highlighting the perception of non-believers as those who lack fidelity to a specific religious doctrine.

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Further usage examples of infidel

1. The inquisition sought to root out infidels and heretics.
2. Religious tolerance is crucial to coexist with an infidel.
3. In medieval times, an infidel was often considered an enemy.
4. The extremist group vowed to eradicate infidels.
5. The religious text condemns the infidel to eternal damnation.
6. Infidels are often marginalized in conservative societies.
7. Some view atheists as infidels who reject all religious beliefs.
8. The scholar studied the interactions between believers and the infidel.
9. The medieval knight embarked on a quest to vanquish the infidel.
10. The infidel was scorned by the devout followers of the religion.
11. The ancient scriptures warned of the perils of associating with infidels.
12. The religious leader preached against the infidels, urging his followers to stay vigilant.
13. The infidel's blasphemous words angered the congregation.
14. The warriors set out on a mission to vanquish the infidels.
15. The infidel's beliefs clashed with the dominant religious ideology.
16. The holy book condemns infidels as non-believers.
17. The warriors vowed to destroy the infidels and their beliefs.
18. The king ordered his soldiers to capture the infidel leader.
19. The infidel was subjected to torture and interrogation.
20. The missionary tried to convince the infidel to accept his faith.
21. The infidel's behavior was seen as sacrilegious by the devout.
22. The infidel's family disowned him for renouncing their faith.
23. The infidel's ideas challenged the traditional religious teachings.
24. The priest refused to perform a service for the infidel.
25. The infidel's actions were viewed as a threat to the community.
26. The infidel was excommunicated from the church.