sect
4 synonyms for sect, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A group with beliefs, especially religious ones, that differ from those of a larger group it split from.
Synonyms
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.
offshoot
splinter group
How to use sect
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a religious sect
break away into a sect
Etymology
From Old French "secte," from Late Latin "secta" ("a school of thought, faction"), possibly from Latin "sequi" ("to follow").
Full origin of sect →Frequently asked questions
What does “sect” mean?
The word “sect” means a group with beliefs, especially religious ones, that differ from those of a larger group it split from. In plain terms, a smaller group, usually religious, that has split off from a larger one over differing beliefs.
How do you pronounce “sect”?
“Sect” is pronounced sehkt (/sɛkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “sect” in a sentence?
Here is “sect” used in a sentence: “The sect had broken away from the main church decades earlier.”
What part of speech is “sect”?
“Sect” is a noun.
Where does the word “sect” come from?
The word “sect” comes from Late Latin. From Old French "secte," from Late Latin "secta" ("a school of thought, faction"), possibly from Latin "sequi" ("to follow").
Is “sect” a common word?
“Sect” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between a sect and a cult?
A sect is a group, especially religious, that holds beliefs differing from those of a larger group it split from, often through doctrinal disagreement. 'Cult' tends to carry stronger negative connotations, suggesting manipulative control or extreme devotion to a leader, though the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably in casual speech.
What is the difference between a sect and a denomination?
A denomination is generally an established, recognized branch of a religion, such as Baptists or Methodists within Christianity. A sect more specifically emphasizes the break from a larger parent group and can carry a more critical or marginal connotation than denomination.
Is sect always used in a religious context?
No, while sect is most often applied to religious groups that have split off with distinct beliefs, it can also describe non-religious factions with dissenting views from a larger movement or ideology.
