nonconformist
non-kun-FOR-mist
/ˌnɒn.kənˈfɔːr.mɪst/
A person whose behavior or views do not conform to prevailing ideas or practices.
Often carries a sense of moral or individualistic pride; a nonconformist chooses their own path regardless of social pressure.
The story behind the word. The term was originally used in 17th-century England to describe Protestants who refused to 'conform' to the practices of the Church of England.
Word relationships
- maverick: Maverick implies an independent-minded person in business or politics; nonconformist is more general.
- rebel: Rebel implies active resistance; nonconformist simply implies not following the crowd.
- conformist: A conformist follows the rules and behaviors of the majority.
- traditionalist: A traditionalist adheres strictly to long-standing customs.
Commonly confused with
- eccentric: An eccentric is unusual by nature; a nonconformist is unusual by choice or principle.
Word family
- nonconformity (noun): Failure or refusal to conform to a prevailing rule or practice.
Collocations
- nonconformist attitude
- religious nonconformist
- stubborn nonconformist
Example sentences
- "The Beat Poets were famous nonconformists who rejected the consumerist values of 1950s America." Describing a social group.
- "Whoso would be a man, must be a nonconformist." A philosophical quote.
Memory hook
Non-CONFORM-ist. Someone who will 'not' be 'formed' into the same 'shape' as everyone else. Refusing the mold.
When not to use
Don't use for someone who is simply 'weird'; it implies a conscious rejection of specific norms.
Fun facts
- In the UK, 'Nonconformist' (with a capital N) still specifically refers to members of Christian denominations other than the Anglican Church.
Related words
Explore more words
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.