Langimage
English

heresy

|her-e-sy|

C1

/ˈhɛrəsi/

unorthodox belief

Etymology
Etymology Information

'heresy' originates from the Greek word 'hairesis,' meaning 'choice' or 'school of thought.'

Historical Evolution

'hairesis' transformed into the Latin word 'haeresis,' and eventually became the modern English word 'heresy' through Old French.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'choice' or 'school of thought,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'belief contrary to orthodox doctrine.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a belief or opinion that is contrary to orthodox religious doctrine, especially Christianity.

The church condemned the scientist's theories as heresy.

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Antonyms

Noun 2

an opinion or doctrine at variance with the accepted doctrine in any field.

His belief in the flat Earth was considered heresy by the scientific community.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45