noun

iconoclasm

eye-KON-uh-klaz-uhm

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Iconoclasm (noun) means the belief in, or act of, destroying religious icons and other symbols or monuments, usually for religious or political reasons. Example: “The reformers' iconoclasm led to the smashing of statues across the churches.”

noun

The belief in, or act of, destroying religious icons and other symbols or monuments, usually for religious or political reasons.

"The reformers' iconoclasm led to the smashing of statues across the churches."

"Historians still argue over what drove the wave of iconoclasm."

"The museum's exhibit traces episodes of iconoclasm through the centuries."

A challenge to a widely held belief, tradition or cherished institution.

"His essays were full of iconoclasm, questioning ideas nobody else dared touch."

"The band's iconoclasm shook up an industry set in its ways."

"Her iconoclasm made her unpopular with traditionalists on the committee."

How to use iconoclasm

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIconoclasm is about tearing down things people hold sacred, whether that is a literal statue or a long-standing idea.

When to use it

It is a fairly formal word, more common in historical, religious and cultural writing than in casual speech.

Memory tip

Link it to iconoclast, the person who commits the act, to remember what iconoclasm itself describes.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

an act of iconoclasm a wave of iconoclasm religious iconoclasm

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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The reformers' _____ led to the smashing of statues across the churches.

Etymology

Iconoclasm is formed from the word iconoclast, the term for someone who destroys or opposes the veneration of religious images.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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iconomachy idoloclasm

Frequently asked questions

What does iconoclasm mean?

Iconoclasm is the belief in or practice of destroying religious icons and symbols, usually driven by religious or political motives.

Does iconoclasm always relate to religion?

Not always. It is also used more broadly for challenging a widely accepted belief, tradition or institution.

What is the difference between iconoclasm and iconoclast?

An iconoclast is the person who carries out or supports the act, while iconoclasm is the belief or practice itself.

What is the meaning of iconoclasm?

"iconoclasm" (noun) means the belief in, or act of, destroying religious icons and other symbols or monuments, usually for religious or political reasons.