Meaning & Definition of word "Agnostic"

Agnostic

/əɡˈnɑːstɪk/

1. A person who believes that the existence of God or the divine is unknown or unknowable.
- Example: As an agnostic, she felt that it was impossible to prove the existence of God.
2. A person who is noncommittal regarding the existence of God, typically arguing that human reason and experience do not provide sufficient grounds for belief.
- Example: His agnostic stance led him to explore various philosophies without fully committing to any.

1. Relating to or denoting agnostics or agnosticism.
- Example: The agnostic viewpoint allows for an open-minded exploration of spiritual questions.
2. Not committed to any particular belief system; open to various interpretations.
- Example: She had an agnostic approach to the discussions, considering all perspectives without bias.

The term 'agnostic' was coined in the late 19th century by the English biologist Thomas Huxley, derived from the Greek 'agnostos', meaning 'unknown'.

agnostic position:

A neutral or uncertain stance about a belief or claim.

agnostic theology:

A line of thought which asserts that the existence of God is not provable or knowable.

agnosticism vs atheism:

Agnosticism is the belief that knowledge of God is impossible, while atheism is a disbelief in God.

theist:

A person who believes in the existence of God.

atheist:

A person who does not believe in the existence of God.

skeptic:

A person inclined to question or doubt accepted opinions.

Meaning: On the fence

Example Sentence: He's really on the fence about religion; he's pretty much agnostic.

Meaning: Wishy-washy

Example Sentence: Her agnostic approach to opinions makes her seem wishy-washy at times.