Apostatize: meaning, definitions and examples

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apostatize

 

[ əˈpɒstətaɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

religious context

To apostatize means to renounce or abandon a religious or political belief or allegiance. This action often implies a departure from faith in a significant and public manner, which can lead to social, cultural, or familial repercussions. Apostasy can be viewed differently across various cultures and religions, with some considering it a grave sin, while others may see it as a personal choice in seeking autonomy or different beliefs. The term itself is often associated with the conversion or rejection of one faith for another.

Synonyms

abandon, convert, forsake, renounce

Examples of usage

  • He decided to apostatize from his childhood faith.
  • The group was known for those who chose to apostatize.
  • Historically, many faced persecution for their choice to apostatize.

Translations

Translations of the word "apostatize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apostatar

🇮🇳 धर्मत्याग करना

🇩🇪 abtrünnig werden

🇮🇩 murtad

🇺🇦 апостасія

🇵🇱 apostazja

🇯🇵 背教する

🇫🇷 apostasier

🇪🇸 apostasía

🇹🇷 dinden çıkma

🇰🇷 배교하다

🇸🇦 ارتداد

🇨🇿 apostazie

🇸🇰 apostáza

🇨🇳 背教

🇸🇮 apostatizem

🇮🇸 afstæðingur

🇰🇿 апостасия

🇬🇪 აპოსტაზია

🇦🇿 apostaz

🇲🇽 apostasía

Etymology

The word 'apostatize' originates from the Greek term 'apostasia,' which means 'defection' or 'desertion.' The root of the term can be traced back to 'aphistanai,' meaning 'to stand away' or 'to cause to stand away.' In the context of religion, the act of apostasy has historical significance, particularly in monotheistic religions such as Christianity and Islam, where it has been viewed with considerable seriousness. Throughout history, many individuals have faced grave consequences for apostatizing, including social ostracism, legal repercussions, and even execution in extreme cases. The term has evolved to encompass not just abandonment of a faith, but also broader political contexts where individuals renounce their affiliations or parties.