heresy

[her-uh-see] / ˈhɛr ə si /

NOUN

unorthodox opinion, especially in religious matters

Synonyms

STRONGEST

blasphemy fallacy

STRONG

agnosticism apostasy atheism defection disbelief dissent dissidence divergence error heterodoxy iconoclasm impiety infidelity nonconformism nonconformity paganism revisionism schism sectarianism secularism sin

WEAK

misbelief

Antonyms

STRONG

agreement belief harmony

WEAK

orthodoxy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When Ferrari revealed the Purosangue three years ago, many in the red brigade derided the design and, more generally, the very idea of a Ferrari sport-utility vehicle, scorning it as a sort of heresy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

Most of the unhappy denizens of Dante’s imagined hell are being eternally tormented for specific moral crimes in categories covering lust, gluttony, greed, anger, heresy, violence, fraud and treachery.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2026

The heresy of yesterday is now – thanks to science and economic crisis – the opportunity of today.

From BBC • Dec. 25, 2024

I realize this is heresy, but I think it’s important to acknowledge the irreducible strangeness of the drama.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2024

Matthew sat intent, ready to pounce on a hint of heresy.

From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare

Vocabulary lists containing heresy

Fahrenheit 451

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

100 Words to Make You Sound Smart

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

World Religions

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!