Meaning & Definition of word "Religion"

Religion

/rɪˈlɪdʒ.ən/

noun:

  • 1. A system of beliefs, practices, and values often centered around spiritual or supernatural elements, typically involving a community of believers.
    • Example: Many people find comfort and community in their religion.
  • 2. A specific faith, system worship, or practice often identified with particular beliefs about the nature of the universe and the existence of deities.
    • Example: Christianity is one of the largest religions in the world.
  • 3. A cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith.
    • Example: For him, environmentalism was more than a cause; it was his religion.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'religion', from Latin 'religio', meaning 'obligation, reverence, or worship'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

freedom of religion:

The right to practice any religion or no religion at all.

organized religion:

A structured system of beliefs and practices shared by a group of people.

religious belief:

A belief that is held as part of a religious doctrine or dogma.

Related Words

spirituality:

The quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.

theology:

The study of the nature of God and religious belief.

Slang Meanings of religion

Meaning: The serious devotion to a cause or belief.

Example Sentence: For him, his career is like a religion; he invests all his time and energy into it.

Meaning: Used humorously to describe an obsession with something.

Example Sentence: For some people, social media can be a religion.