Pagan: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe someone who follows a polytheistic or nature-based religion, especially those from ancient times like Romans or Greeks. It can sound neutral or slightly descriptive.

• The ancient pagans worshiped multiple gods and goddesses.
• She practices a modern form of paganism focused on nature rituals.

A term traditionally used by Christians to describe someone who doesn't follow the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Judaism, Islam). It often carries a negative or archaic tone.

• The missionaries aimed to convert the heathens in the distant land.
• He called them heathens for not attending church services.

Typically used within a religious context, particularly from a Muslim perspective, to describe someone who does not believe in their faith. It has a very strong, negative connotation and can be offensive.

• The term infidel was used to describe those who did not follow the faith.
• In conflicts, both sides often referred to the other as infidels.

A more neutral term to describe someone who does not believe in any religion or deity. It's often used in a general or secular context.

• He identifies as a nonbeliever and prefers a scientific view of the world.
• Nonbelievers might still celebrate cultural holidays like Christmas.

Used to describe someone who follows a polytheistic or nature-based religion, especially those outside of the major world religions. Often used in historical contexts or to refer to ancient beliefs.

• In ancient Rome, many citizens practiced pagan rituals.
• She identifies as a modern pagan and celebrates solstices.

Used to describe something or someone as wild, fierce, or violent. This word has a very negative and strong connotation, particularly when describing people.

• The explorers wrote about the savage beauty of the untouched wilderness.
• Referring to a person as a savage is highly derogatory and disrespectful.

Often used to refer to uncultured or uncivilized people, especially from a perspective of ancient civilizations like Greece or Rome. It can have a strong negative connotation if used to describe someone in a derogatory way.

• The Romans considered the Germanic tribes to be barbarians.
• Calling someone a barbarian can be highly offensive.

Typically describes early stages of human development or simple, outdated technology or methods. It can also be used negatively to describe something as unsophisticated.

• They found primitive tools at the archaeological site.
• His ideas were considered primitive in today's advanced society.

Used to describe people or societies who follow religious beliefs that are not part of the world's major religions, especially focusing on polytheistic or nature-centered practices. Often used in historical contexts.

• The ancient Romans practiced a variety of pagan rituals.
• The festival has its roots in pagan traditions.

This word is often used in a negative or pejorative sense to describe people who do not follow a monotheistic religion, particularly Christianity. It can imply ignorance or barbarism.

• In medieval times, Christians referred to non-believers as heathens.
• Calling someone a heathen can be quite offensive.

A neutral term that describes someone who does not adhere to the Christian faith. It can be used in various contexts, including academic, social, or interfaith discussions.

• The event is open to both Christian and non-Christian attendees.
• He has friends from various religious backgrounds, including non-Christian ones.

Typically used to describe behaviors, methods, or approaches that are different from what is generally accepted or traditional. This term is more inclusive and not limited to religious contexts.

• She has an unconventional approach to solving problems.
• Their wedding was quite unconventional, held in a forest instead of a church.