adj
Common
orthodox
AW-thuh-doks
Orthodox (adj) means following the traditional, widely accepted beliefs or practices of a religion or system of thought. Example: “The doctor preferred an orthodox treatment that had been proven over many years.”
adj
1
Following the traditional, widely accepted beliefs or practices of a religion or system of thought.
"The doctor preferred an orthodox treatment that had been proven over many years."
"His views on economics are fairly orthodox."
"She was raised in an orthodox Jewish household."
2
Relating to the Eastern Orthodox Church or other Orthodox Christian traditions.
"We visited an Orthodox monastery on the hill, where the monks lit candles."
"Many Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter on a different Sunday from the rest."
"The wedding took place in a small Orthodox church."
How to use orthodox
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSticking to traditional, accepted beliefs or methods rather than doing something unconventional.
UK vs US
Capitalized "Orthodox" refers specifically to Eastern Orthodox Christianity or Orthodox Judaism; lowercase "orthodox" just means conventional or traditional.
Common pairings
orthodox view
orthodox Christian
unorthodox approach
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more orthodox
- Superlative
- most orthodox
Fill the gap
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The doctor preferred an _____ treatment that had been proven over many years.
Etymology
From Greek orthodoxos, combining orthos ("straight, correct") and doxa ("opinion") — literally "having the correct opinion."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for orthodox
See all rhymes for orthodox →Frequently asked questions
What does “orthodox” mean?
The word “orthodox” means following the traditional, widely accepted beliefs or practices of a religion or system of thought. In plain terms, sticking to traditional, accepted beliefs or methods rather than doing something unconventional.
How do you pronounce “orthodox”?
“Orthodox” is pronounced AW-thuh-doks (/ˈɔɹθədɑks/ in IPA).
How do you use “orthodox” in a sentence?
Here is “orthodox” used in a sentence: “His views on economics are fairly orthodox.”
What is another word for “orthodox”?
Words with a similar meaning to “orthodox” include halal, homodox, kosher, by the book, allowed and conventional.
What is the opposite of “orthodox”?
The opposite of “orthodox” — its antonyms — are liberal, outlandish, unorthodox and unconventional.
What part of speech is “orthodox”?
“Orthodox” is an adjective.
Where does the word “orthodox” come from?
The word “orthodox” comes from Greek. From Greek orthodoxos, combining orthos ("straight, correct") and doxa ("opinion") — literally "having the correct opinion.".
Is “orthodox” a common word?
“Orthodox” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'unorthodox'?
'Orthodox' describes beliefs or methods that follow traditional, widely accepted practice. 'Unorthodox' is its opposite, describing approaches that break from convention or do things in an unusual way.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'conventional'?
Both words describe following established norms, but 'orthodox' often implies conforming to an authoritative body of doctrine, especially in religion or an academic field. 'Conventional' is broader and simply means usual or customary, without the sense of an official standard.
When is 'Orthodox' written with a capital O?
'Orthodox' is capitalized when it refers to a specific religious tradition, such as the Eastern Orthodox Church or Orthodox Judaism. When it means traditional or conventional in a general sense, it is written in lowercase.
What is the difference between 'orthodox' and 'traditional'?
'Traditional' simply means handed down over time, while 'orthodox' carries the extra idea of correctness, following the approved or accepted version of a belief or practice. Something can be traditional without being orthodox if it departs from the officially sanctioned form.
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