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hea·then
 heathen
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- pronunciation:
- hi
th
 n
- parts of speech:
- noun, adjective
- features:
- Word Combinations (noun, adjective), Word Explorer
| part of speech: |
noun |
| inflections: |
heathen, heathens |
| definition 1: |
someone who is regarded as being outside a given religious orthodoxy, esp. one not converted to Christianity, Judaism, or Islam; unconverted person.
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| definition 2: |
such persons referred to collectively.
Under religious law, the heathen are unclean. |
| definition 3: |
someone who is considered uncivilized and lacking in acceptably enlightened values; barbarian.
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| related words: |
beast, boor, heretic |
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| part of speech: |
adjective |
| definition 1: |
of or relating to the heathens.
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| definition 2: |
not considered civilized, esp. not acceptably enlightened with respect to religious practice.
a heathen ritual of trial by fire |
| related words: |
savage |
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| derivations: |
heathenish (adj.), heathenism (n.) |
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