Orthodox: meaning, definitions and examples

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orthodox

[ˈɔːrθədɒks ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

religion

Adhering to traditional beliefs, especially in religion. Following or conforming to the traditional or generally accepted rules or beliefs of a religion, philosophy, or practice.

Synonyms

conservative, conventional, traditional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orthodox	Used to describe beliefs, ideas, or practices that are accepted by most people as the correct or traditional ones, often in a religious context or within a particular doctrine. He follows an orthodox interpretation of the scriptures. Orthodox medicine rejects alternative therapies.
traditional	Used to refer to customs, beliefs, or methods that have been handed down through generations and are characteristic of a particular culture or community. They celebrate traditional holidays with family rituals. Traditional medicine includes practices used for centuries.
conservative	Used to describe a preference for traditional values, customs, and ideas, and a resistance to change or innovation. Often used in political and social contexts. She holds conservative views on marriage. The conservative party opposes rapid societal changes.
conventional	Used to describe something that is based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed; typical and ordinary. They chose a conventional wedding ceremony. His views on education are quite conventional.

Examples of usage

Many people in Greece are Orthodox Christians.
She comes from an orthodox Muslim family.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

general

Not deviating from what is commonly accepted by the majority or by society. Adhering to what is commonly accepted, customary, or traditional.

Synonyms

conservative, conventional, traditional.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orthodox	Use 'orthodox' when referring to strict adherence to established or traditional beliefs, particularly in religion or ideology. His views are very orthodox in terms of religious practices. The community adheres to orthodox customs and traditions.
traditional	Use 'traditional' to refer to customs, beliefs, or practices that have been passed down through generations, and are often associated with culture or heritage. They celebrated the holiday with traditional foods and ceremonies. She prefers traditional music over modern styles.
conservative	Use 'conservative' for describing someone or something that prefers to maintain existing conditions and oppose changes, often in politics or social affairs. She has conservative views on marriage and family. The conservative party won the election.
conventional	Use 'conventional' to describe something that follows accepted standards or traditions, often in a neutral or slightly formal sense. He wore a suit and tie to the interview, which is quite conventional. The method they used is fairly conventional in this industry.

Examples of usage

His orthodox views on politics are well known.
She has very orthodox opinions on social issues.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Orthodox' comes from the Greek words 'orthos' meaning 'right' or 'true' and 'doxa' meaning 'belief' or 'opinion'.
The term has been used since the 4th century to describe beliefs aligned with the teachings of the Church.
The word has roots in the idea of having a correct or accepted belief system, especially in contrast to heresy.

Religion

In Christianity, orthodox refers to the Eastern Orthodox Church, which emphasizes traditional worship and theology.
Judaism also has an orthodox branch, adhering strictly to traditional teachings and laws, including the Torah.
Orthodox practices typically includes strict observance of religious laws, customs, and rituals.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, being orthodox means valuing history and customs, which can shape social identity and community bonds.
The term is often used in contrast to 'progressive' beliefs, highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity.
Orthodox communities often form close-knit societies, celebrating long-standing traditions and values.

Psychology

Research suggests that individuals who identify with orthodox beliefs may experience high levels of certainty and stability in their worldview.
Orthodox beliefs can create strong in-group versus out-group dynamics, influencing social behavior and interactions.
Cognitive dissonance theory shows that adherence to orthodox principles can lead to resistance against new or challenging viewpoints.

Literature

Classical literature often discusses themes of orthodox versus unorthodox beliefs, exemplified in many philosophical texts.
Dostoevsky’s works often explore the struggles of characters caught between orthodox traditions and personal belief crises.
Wide-ranging interpretations of orthodox themes appear in modern literature, reflecting societal shifts in belief systems.

Translations

Translations of the word "orthodox" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ortodoxo

🇮🇳 रूढ़िवादी

🇩🇪 orthodox

🇮🇩 ortodoks

🇺🇦 ортодоксальний

🇵🇱 ortodoksyjny

🇯🇵 正統派 (せいとうは)

🇫🇷 orthodoxe

🇪🇸 ortodoxo

🇹🇷 ortodoks

🇰🇷 정통의

🇸🇦 أرثوذكسي

🇨🇿 ortodoxní

🇸🇰 ortodoxný

🇨🇳 正统的 (zhèngtǒng de)

🇸🇮 ortodoksen

🇮🇸 rétttrúaður

🇰🇿 православ

🇬🇪 ორთოდოქსი (ortodoksi)

🇦🇿 ortodoks

🇲🇽 ortodoxo

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,143 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8140 bushes
8141 flung
8142 eventual
8143 orthodox
8144 hi
8145 contrasted
8146 diseased
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