paganism

[ pey-guh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. pagan spirit or attitude in religious or moral questions.
2. the beliefs or practices of pagans.
3. the state of being a pagan.

Other Words From

• pagan·ist adjective noun
• pagan·istic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of paganism¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English pāgānysme, from Late Latin pāgānismus, equivalent to Latin pāgān(us) pagan + -ismus -ism

Example Sentences

Moreau works with biodynamic grapes, a style of vineyard management that can quickly be surmised as organics on steroids with a dash of Paganism.

From Eater

Yes, as a figure, “Santa Claus” has his roots in early Christian Europe, Dutch folklore, and Germanic paganism.

From The Daily Beast

There are so many branches of Paganism and there are also different ways to practice these faiths.

From The Daily Beast

Cromwell actually did declare a War on Christmas, which he deemed to be sensuous paganism.

From The Daily Beast

The people here retained the same paganism and barbarity, only they were not so dangerous, being conquered by the Muscovites.

From Project Gutenberg

They were condemned on confessions of Islamism and paganism, extorted by the rack, and afterwards retracted.

From Project Gutenberg

Under a Philippine hierarchy there would be a danger of the natives reverting to paganism and fetichism.

From Project Gutenberg

The superstitious tyrant Maximin endeavoured to revive the dying paganism, and to renew the persecution.

From Project Gutenberg

The kingdom of heaven cometh not with observation, and paganism seemed entirely unconscious of its impending doom.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• blasphemy
• fallacy