unbelief

American  

[uhn-bi-leef] / ˌʌn bɪˈlif /

noun

1. the state or quality of not believing; incredulity or skepticism, especially in matters of doctrine or religious faith.

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unbelief British  

/ ˌʌnbɪˈliːf /

noun

1. disbelief or rejection of belief

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Etymology

Origin of unbelief

1125–75; Middle English unbelefe; see un- ¹, belief

Explanation

You can use the noun unbelief to talk about a lack of belief in something, like your unbelief, since childhood, in fairies. When someone doesn't believe in something, that person has an unbelief. Most often, the term unbelief is used to talk specifically about religion. An atheist is characterized by her unbelief in a god or higher power beyond things that can be scientifically proven. Another word for unbelief is disbelief.

Example Sentences

“Our job is to provide an alternative to show that a life of unbelief can be, and usually is, fulfilling and productive,” she told the students.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 5, 2021

For some, this struggle just leads back to unbelief.

From New York Times • Aug. 14, 2021

It is also a refreshing look beyond the so-called “new atheists” who have lately dominated the conversation surrounding unbelief.

From The New Yorker • Oct. 22, 2018

“I was just in unbelief that Amaiya made this rule change happen and she is only 16. “When she was a little girl around two or three she use to pretend she is 16.

From Washington Post • May 2, 2017

“Is that proper writing?” he demanded in unbelief.

From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare