orthodox
17 synonyms and 4 antonyms for orthodox, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Following the traditional, widely accepted beliefs or practices of a religion or system of thought.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use orthodox
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Greek orthodoxos, combining orthos ("straight, correct") and doxa ("opinion") — literally "having the correct opinion."
Full origin of orthodox →Frequently asked questions
What does “orthodox” mean?
The word “orthodox” means following the traditional, widely accepted beliefs or practices of a religion or system of thought. In plain terms, sticking to traditional, accepted beliefs or methods rather than doing something unconventional.
How do you pronounce “orthodox”?
“Orthodox” is pronounced AW-thuh-doks (/ˈɔɹθədɑks/ in IPA).
How do you use “orthodox” in a sentence?
Here is “orthodox” used in a sentence: “His views on economics are fairly orthodox.”
What is another word for “orthodox”?
Words with a similar meaning to “orthodox” include halal, homodox, kosher, by the book, allowed and conventional.
What is the opposite of “orthodox”?
The opposite of “orthodox” — its antonyms — are liberal, outlandish, unorthodox and unconventional.
What part of speech is “orthodox”?
“Orthodox” is an adjective.
Where does the word “orthodox” come from?
The word “orthodox” comes from Greek. From Greek orthodoxos, combining orthos ("straight, correct") and doxa ("opinion") — literally "having the correct opinion.".
Is “orthodox” a common word?
“Orthodox” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'unorthodox'?
'Orthodox' describes beliefs or methods that follow traditional, widely accepted practice. 'Unorthodox' is its opposite, describing approaches that break from convention or do things in an unusual way.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'conventional'?
Both words describe following established norms, but 'orthodox' often implies conforming to an authoritative body of doctrine, especially in religion or an academic field. 'Conventional' is broader and simply means usual or customary, without the sense of an official standard.
When is 'Orthodox' written with a capital O?
'Orthodox' is capitalized when it refers to a specific religious tradition, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church or Orthodox Judaism. When it means traditional or conventional in a general sense, it is written in lowercase.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'traditional'?
'Traditional' simply means handed down over time, while 'orthodox' carries the extra idea of correctness, following the approved or accepted version of a belief or practice. Something can be traditional without being orthodox if it departs from the officially sanctioned form.