VocabDictionary

heterodoxy

/ˈhɛt.ər.ə.dɑːk.si/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A belief, doctrine, or opinion that departs from established, official, or accepted standards.

Example Sentences:
  • The professor's economic theories were initially dismissed as heterodoxy, though they later reshaped modern policy.
  • Throughout history, scientific breakthroughs have often originated as radical heterodoxy against the reigning paradigm.
2.noun

The quality or state of holding non-mainstream or dissenting views.

Example Sentences:
  • The journal was established to encourage intellectual heterodoxy in political philosophy.
  • He maintained a reputation for heterodoxy, frequently challenging the consensus of his peers.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “heterodoxy”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'heterodoxia', combining 'heteros' (other, different) and 'doxa' (opinion, belief). It originally referred to religious beliefs that deviated from official church doctrine before broadening in the 17th century to encompass any unconventional theory or non-mainstream idea.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Combine 'hetero' (different) with 'doxy' (doctrine) = holding a different doctrine or belief from the norm.

Frequently Asked Questions About “heterodoxy

1. What is the meaning of “heterodoxy” in English?

In English, heterodoxy (noun) is defined as: “A belief, doctrine, or opinion that departs from established, official, or accepted standards.”.

2. How do you use “heterodoxy” in a sentence?

The professor's economic theories were initially dismissed as heterodoxy, though they later reshaped modern policy.

3. What are English synonyms of “heterodoxy”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “heterodoxy”?

Derived from the Greek 'heterodoxia', combining 'heteros' (other, different) and 'doxa' (opinion, belief). It originally referred to religious beliefs that deviated from official church doctrine before broadening in the 17th century to encompass any unconventional theory or non-mainstream idea.