heretical

[huh-ret-i-kuhl]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of heretics or heresy.

   Synonyms: radical, dissident, unconventional, unorthodox

Other Word Forms

• heretically adverb
• hereticalness noun
• nonheretical adjective
• nonheretically adverb
• semiheretical adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of heretical¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English word from Medieval Latin word haereticālis. See heretic, -al ¹

Example Sentences

Call me heretical, but sometimes I feel that way about L.A.’s palm trees.

From Los Angeles Times

We also need to weaken and counteract the rising appeal of the heretical ideology that is Christian nationalism.

From Salon

To the extent there are any scientists RFK Jr. or Trump respect they are all heretical and eccentric.

From Salon

For many Christians, the NAR’s focus on fighting demons is inherently heretical, since it implies that salvation through Christ is insufficient.

From Salon

Of course, what the former president does not understand is that the protection of free expression is most needed when speech is unpopular, offensive, or heretical.

From Salon