Meaning & Definition
noun
A person who is not a member of a particular religious order or denomination.
The secular was influential in the community, often advocating for the rights of non-religious individuals.
adjective
Relating to or denoting attitudes, activities, or other things that have no religious or spiritual basis.
The school curriculum is strictly secular, focusing on science and literature.
Denoting something that is not based on or connected to religion.
The festival has both secular and religious elements, appealing to a wide audience.
Of or relating to worldly things; temporal.
The government's secular policies support the separation of church and state.
Etymology
From Latin 'saecularis', meaning 'worldly' or 'temporal'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
secularism:
The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions.
secular state:
A state that champions the concept of separation of religion from civic affairs and the state.
secular education:
Education that is free from religious influence.
Slang Meanings
Secularism in a casual context.
That party was totally secular; no religious talks.
To refer to someone who doesn't follow a religion in a lighthearted manner.
He's so secular, he doesn't even know the words to 'O Holy Night.'