atheism
AY-thee-iz-um
/ˈeɪθiɪzəm/
The absence of belief in the existence of deities, or the explicit stance that no deities exist.
Refers specifically to belief regarding gods, distinct from broader irreligion or total rejection of spirituality.
The story behind the word. The word traces back to ancient Greek 'atheos', combined from 'a-' (without) and 'theos' (god). In ancient Greece and Rome, it was often used pejoratively against anyone who failed to worship the state's recognized gods, including early Christians.
Word relationships
- non-belief: Non-belief is a general lack of faith, whereas atheism is a formal stance regarding deities.
- theism: Theism is the belief in one or more divine beings.
Commonly confused with
- agnosticism: Atheism addresses what you believe (no gods), while agnosticism addresses what you know (unknowable).
Word family
- atheist (noun): A person who does not believe in the existence of a god or gods.
- atheistic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of atheism.
Collocations
- militant atheism
- philosophical atheism
- explicit atheism
- rise of atheism
Example sentences
- "Modern debates on atheism often focus on whether the burden of proof rests on believers or non-believers." Philosophical discussion
- "Baruch Spinoza was frequently accused of atheism by his contemporaries due to his radical pantheistic views." Historical literature
Memory hook
A- (without) + THEISM (god-belief) = living without god-belief. No gods required.
When not to use
Do not confuse with agnosticism, which concerns knowledge rather than belief, or with general cynicism.
Fun facts
- In ancient Rome, early Christians were called 'atheists' by pagans because they rejected the Roman pantheon.
Related words
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