Meaning & Definition of word "Pagan"
to
Pagan
/ˈpeɪɡən/
noun:
- 1. A person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions, particularly someone who is a polytheist or practices nature worship.
- Example: The festival celebrated by the pagans was rooted in ancient traditions.
- 2. A person who is not a Christian, Jew, or Muslim; often used to refer to someone who adheres to a polytheistic religion.
- Example: In ancient Rome, many pagans worshipped various gods and goddesses.
adjective:
- 1. Relating to pagan beliefs or practices.
- Example: The archaeological site revealed many pagan artifacts from the Bronze Age.
- 2. Not connected with Christianity, Judaism, or Islam; often associated with polytheism.
- Example: The novel explores themes of pagan spirituality in a modern context.
Etymology
From Latin 'paganus', meaning 'country dweller', 'rustic', hence 'civilian (non-soldier)', later associated with non-Christians.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pagan rituals:
Ceremonies or practices associated with pagan beliefs.
pagan practices:
Activities adopted by pagans, often related to worship or spirituality.
neo-paganism:
A modern religious movement influenced by ancient pagan beliefs.
Related Words
heathen:
A person who does not belong to a widely held religion, particularly one other than Christianity.
animism:
The belief that objects, places, and creatures all possess a spiritual essence.
polytheism:
The belief in or worship of multiple gods.
Slang Meanings of pagan
Meaning: A non-conformist individual who rejects conventional beliefs.
Example Sentence: She has a pagan aesthetic, embracing nature in every aspect of her life.
Meaning: Someone who has alternative lifestyle choices.
Example Sentence: He's a bit of a pagan when it comes to celebrating the solstices.