noun
Heathen
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
Word Forms
Heathens plural
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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.