heathen
word
Definition
A person who does not believe in the religion that is considered true by others, especially used for someone who does not follow one of the major recognized religions. It can also mean someone seen as uncivilized or lacking culture.
Usage & Nuances
'Heathen' is old-fashioned and can sound offensive. It was originally used by religious groups to describe non-believers but today is rarely used seriously. Sometimes appears jokingly or to describe ancient peoples. Similar words: 'pagan', 'infidel'. Avoid using it to describe people modernly.
Example Sentences
In the story, the villagers called the strangers heathens.
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Long ago, people often called others heathens if they had different beliefs.
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The old temple was used by the heathens.
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He joked that his friends were heathens because they never go to church.
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Some old books describe foreign lands as full of heathens.
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These days, calling someone a heathen is usually meant as a joke, not an insult.
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