noun
Uncommon
Heathen
Heathen (noun) means Historically, a person who does not follow one of the major world religions; more recently, a follower of modern pagan Heathenry. Example: “The missionaries set out to convert the so-called heathens.”
noun
1
Historically, a person who does not follow one of the major world religions; more recently, a follower of modern pagan Heathenry.
"The missionaries set out to convert the so-called heathens."
adj
1
Relating to such beliefs or practices.
"The ruins were once part of a heathen temple."
How to use Heathen
Learner’s notes
When to use it
Historically used (often disparagingly) by Christians about non-believers; today it is mainly used either historically or as the neutral name for modern pagan Heathenry.
Common pairings
heathen practices
heathen gods
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Word forms
- Plural
- Heathens
Fill the gap
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The missionaries set out to convert the so-called _____.
Etymology
Ultimately from the same root as "heath," originally describing people who lived on the wild heath outside Christianized towns.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “Heathen” mean?
The word “Heathen” means historically, a person who does not follow one of the major world religions; more recently, a follower of modern pagan Heathenry.
How do you use “Heathen” in a sentence?
Here is “Heathen” used in a sentence: “The missionaries set out to convert the so-called heathens.”
What part of speech is “Heathen”?
Depending on how it is used, “Heathen” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “Heathen” a common word?
“Heathen” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “Heathen” have?
“Heathen” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: historically, a person who does not follow one of the major world religions; more recently, a follower of modern pagan Heathenry.
