iconoclastic
eye-kon-uh-KLAS-tik
/aɪˌkɒn.əˈklæs.tɪk/
Characterized by an attack on settled beliefs or institutions.
Stronger than 'unorthodox'; it implies a deliberate, often aggressive, attempt to dismantle sacred or highly respected traditions.
The story behind the word. The term originates from the Byzantine Empire's 'Iconoclastic Controversy,' where religious leaders ordered the physical destruction of religious icons and images, believing they led to idolatry.
Word relationships
- heretical: Heretical specifically refers to religious dissent, while iconoclastic is broader.
- irreverent: Irreverent is lighter and more playful; iconoclastic is more serious and destructive.
- orthodox: Orthodox means following established, traditional rules.
- reverent: Reverent implies deep respect for traditions and icons.
Commonly confused with
- subversive: Subversive works from within to undermine; iconoclastic attacks from the outside to break.
Word family
- iconoclast (noun): A person who attacks cherished beliefs or institutions.
- iconoclasm (noun): The action of attacking or assertively rejecting cherished beliefs.
Collocations
- iconoclastic views
- iconoclastic spirit
- iconoclastic approach
Example sentences
- "Nietzsche was an iconoclastic thinker who challenged the very foundations of Western morality." Describing a philosopher.
- "Marcel Duchamp's 'Fountain' was an iconoclastic gesture that redefined what could be considered art." Describing a piece of art.
Memory hook
Break the 'icon' (image) with a 'clash'. Icono-clastic. The image-breaker.
When not to use
Avoid using for mild disagreements; it requires a 'shattering' of status quo ideas.
Fun facts
- The first recorded iconoclasts were the 8th-century Byzantine emperors who literally smashed religious paintings.
Related words
Explore more words
iconoclasm, subversive, polemic, unconventional, radical, disrupt
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