Heretic
A heretic is a person who holds or promotes beliefs that differ from established religious doctrine, especially within a faith the person is understood to belong to.
A heretic is a person who holds beliefs that differ from established religious doctrine. The term is also used more broadly for anyone who rejects accepted standards.
What it is
Dictionary definitions consistently describe a heretic as someone who departs from accepted religious doctrine, especially within a faith the person is understood to belong to. The word is usually pejorative, particularly in religious contexts, and can also apply more generally to unorthodox opinions in any field.
Religious context
In Christian usage, especially Roman Catholic tradition, the term traditionally refers to a baptized believer who rejects official church doctrines. This religious sense is the most established historical usage, though the word is also used metaphorically in modern commentary.
Broader modern use
Outside religion, heretic may describe a nonconformist or dissenter whose ideas go against accepted standards. This metaphorical usage is common in journalism and informal speech, sometimes even used positively to describe someone who challenges conventional thinking.
In short
- A heretic departs from accepted religious doctrine
- The term often carries a negative connotation
- It can be used metaphorically for nonconformists
- Etymology traces to Greek hairetikos
The term is used in Canadian English in its standard religious and metaphorical senses, especially in discussions of faith, doctrine, and nonconformity. There is no uniquely Canadian meaning.
Quick questions
What is a heretic?
Is heretic always a religious term?
Is heretic a neutral word?
Sources
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hereticSupports: Primary dictionary definition; religious and broader meanings
- Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/hereticSupports: Definitions of heretic as a person opposing official religious doctrine or accepted belief
- Collins Dictionary — https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/hereticSupports: Broader and religious definitions; pejorative connotation
- Britannica Dictionary — https://www.britannica.com/dictionary/hereticSupports: Definition as someone who believes or teaches against accepted beliefs
- Online Etymology Dictionary — https://www.etymonline.com/word/hereticSupports: Etymology from Greek through Latin and Old French