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adj

heretical

huh-REH-tih-kuhl

Heretical (adj) means involving or characteristic of heresy; contrary to accepted religious teaching. Example: “The bishop condemned the pamphlet as heretical.”

adj
1
Involving or characteristic of heresy; contrary to accepted religious teaching.
"The bishop condemned the pamphlet as heretical."
2
Sharply against mainstream or generally accepted opinion.
"Her heretical theory challenged decades of scientific consensus."

How to use heretical

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribing an idea or belief that breaks sharply with official or accepted views.

Common mistake

"Heretic" is the person; "heretical" is the adjective describing the belief or idea.

Easily confused with

Word forms

more heretical comparative, most heretical superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The bishop condemned the pamphlet as _____.

Etymology

From heretic plus the adjective suffix -al, via Medieval Latin haereticālis.

Origin: Medieval Latin

Rhymes for heretical

See all rhymes for heretical →

Frequently asked questions

What does “heretical” mean?

The word “heretical” means involving or characteristic of heresy; contrary to accepted religious teaching. In plain terms, describing an idea or belief that breaks sharply with official or accepted views.

How do you pronounce “heretical”?

“Heretical” is pronounced huh-REH-tih-kuhl (/həˈɹɛtɪkəl/ in IPA).

How do you use “heretical” in a sentence?

Here is “heretical” used in a sentence: “The bishop condemned the pamphlet as heretical.”

What part of speech is “heretical”?

“Heretical” is an adjective.

Where does the word “heretical” come from?

The word “heretical” comes from Medieval Latin. From heretic plus the adjective suffix -al, via Medieval Latin haereticālis.

How many meanings does “heretical” have?

“Heretical” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: involving or characteristic of heresy; contrary to accepted religious teaching.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial