Atheist: meaning, definitions and examples

An atheist is someone who does not believe in the existence of any gods. This word is typically used when emphasizing a person's firm disbelief in a deity.

• John is an atheist and does not attend any religious services

A nonbeliever is a general term for someone who does not subscribe to any religious beliefs. It is less specific than 'atheist' and can encompass atheists, agnostics, and other individuals who do not follow a religion.

• Mike identifies as a nonbeliever and prefers to focus on scientific explanations for the world

A skeptic is someone who tends to question or doubt accepted beliefs or claims, including religious ones. This word can be used more broadly to describe a person who questions all kinds of beliefs and assertions.

• As a skeptic, Emma always asks for evidence before accepting any claim, whether religious or scientific

An agnostic is someone who is unsure about the existence of gods or believes that it is impossible to know for certain. This word is used when someone is open to the possibility but lacks belief or disbelief.

• Sarah calls herself agnostic because she thinks it's impossible to prove whether deities exist or not

Used to describe someone who does not believe in the existence of any deities. This term is often used in a neutral or descriptive context, without strong negative or positive connotations.

• She identifies as an atheist and does not attend any religious services
• Many prominent scientists throughout history have been atheists

Typically used in a historical or religious context to describe someone who does not believe in one's own religion. This term has strong negative connotations and is often pejorative.

• During the Crusades, Christians and Muslims referred to each other as infidels
• The term infidel has been used to label those of differing beliefs throughout history

Describes someone who has no religious beliefs or practices without strongly implying disbelief in the existence of gods. It is usually neutral, but can have a slight negative tinge when used by the religious.

• She considers herself irreligious and does not involve herself in any religious activities
• The community was largely irreligious, focusing more on secular values

Carries a negative connotation and is used to describe someone or something that is considered to be without god, often implying moral deficiency or lack of spiritual values. Common in religious or moral discussions.

• The villagers thought of him as godless because he never participated in religious festivals
• His godless behavior worried his deeply religious family