heretical
huh-RET-ih-kuhl
/həˈret.ɪ.kəl/
Holding or expressing opinions that depart radically from accepted orthodox standards or doctrines.
In history of science, refers to ideas that challenge established dogma and provoke strong institutional resistance.
The story behind the word. Originates from Ancient Greek 'hairetikos', meaning able to choose. Early Christian writers used it to label those who chose private doctrines over official church authority.
Word relationships
- unorthodox: Unorthodox means contrary to accepted rules, whereas heretical implies an aggressive challenge to foundational dogma.
- heterodox: Heterodox is a formal synonym meaning holding non-conforming beliefs, often used in scholarly contexts.
- orthodox: Orthodox means conforming to established, accepted beliefs or doctrines.
- conventional: Conventional implies adhering to accepted standards or traditions.
Commonly confused with
- hereditary: Hereditary relates to genetic or familial inheritance, whereas heretical relates to challenging established beliefs.
Word family
- heresy (noun): Belief or opinion contrary to orthodox doctrine
- heretic (noun): A person believing in or practicing heresy
- heretically (adverb): In a heretical manner
Collocations
- heretical view
- heretical claim
- deemed heretical
- heretical idea
Example sentences
- "Galileo's advocacy for heliocentrism was declared heretical by the Inquisition in 1633." Renaissance history
- "Ideas once condemned as heretical often become the cornerstone of future scientific orthodoxies." Scientific novelty
Memory hook
A HERETIC says 'HERE IS my own choice' against the crowd. Defying the rule.
When not to use
Do not use for minor disagreements or mild differences of opinion.
Fun facts
- Giordano Bruno was burned at the stake in 1600 for his heretical claims, including the belief that the universe contains infinite inhabited worlds.
Related words
Explore more words
heresy, iconoclastic, unorthodox, orthodoxy, maverick, unconventional
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