noun

apostasy

uh-POS-tuh-see

Apostasy (noun) means the act of giving up or renouncing a religious faith that one previously held. Example: “In some countries apostasy is still treated as a criminal offence.”

noun

The act of giving up or renouncing a religious faith that one previously held.

"In some countries apostasy is still treated as a criminal offence."

"Her family regarded her decision to leave the church as apostasy."

The abandonment of a political cause, party or set of principles one formerly supported.

"Voting with the opposition was, to his old allies, plain apostasy."

"The memoir was read as an act of ideological apostasy."

How to Use Apostasy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTurning your back on a religion or cause you once believed in.

When to use it

Formal, and often disapproving: it is a label applied by those left behind rather than one people usually claim for themselves.

Memory tip

A person who commits apostasy is an apostate, and the adjective is apostate as well.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

heresy → blasphemy → apoplexy → apostrophe →

Common pairings

accused of apostasy charge of apostasy act of apostasy laws against apostasy

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In some countries _____ is still treated as a criminal offence.

Etymology

From Greek apostasis 'defection, revolt', literally a standing away, from apo 'away from' and stasis 'a standing'.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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renunciation defection backsliding recantation betrayal desertion disloyalty

Antonyms

conversion fidelity loyalty allegiance

Related Words

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Rhymes for apostasy

easy peasy uneasy queasy greasy creasy fantasy ecstasy speakeasy idiosyncrasy

See all rhymes for apostasy →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between apostasy and heresy?

Apostasy is leaving the faith altogether, while heresy is staying within it but holding beliefs the religion rejects. A heretic still claims membership of the tradition; an apostate no longer does.

Is apostasy the same as blasphemy?

No. Blasphemy is speech or action that insults what a religion holds sacred, and someone can commit it without ever having belonged to that faith. Apostasy requires having held the belief first and then abandoning it.

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