APOSTASY Synonyms: 30 Similar and Opposite Words

apostasy

noun

Definition of apostasy

as in schism

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of apostasy This Lent is magnifying his apostasy like never before. — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026 This triggers a slippery slope toward apostasy — that is, de-prioritizing mindedness toward church vetted preoccupations. — Cory Anderson, STAT, 6 Mar. 2026 Its roots are in publicly paying penance for serious sins or crimes in the eyes of the church, like adultery or apostasy, which means renouncing the church and its beliefs. — Lianna Norman, Florida Times-Union, 16 Feb. 2026 Those who showed apostasy rarely got another assignment. — Vince Passaro, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for apostasy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for apostasy

Noun

The lasting schism among religious groups would ultimately be linked to the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi (1948) and that of Indira Gandhi (1984).

— Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026
But the Kirtland church community soon experienced schisms and conflicts over doctrine, money and authority.

— ABC News, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of schism

Noun

If James’ defection seems destined to peel casual NBA viewers away from the Lake Show, the subsequent heightened interest for the teams repping the I-95 megalopolis should go a long way toward helping shore up the league’s national deliveries.

— Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 27 July 2026
Gang Seong brings Ri Eung-ryeong back to North Korea, where he is presumably punished for his defection.

— Kayti Burt, Time, 27 July 2026

Definition of defection

Noun

When the nucleus ultimately disintegrates, these pieces move apart rapidly and the neck snaps quickly, a process known as scission.

— Charles Q. Choi, Scientific American, 24 Feb. 2021
The structure is easily broken down in a reaction called scission (like scissors), which tears up the polymer chain.

— Caroline Delbert, Popular Mechanics, 5 Aug. 2020

Definition of scission

Noun

Gripped by a paralyzing fear for the fate of her future children, Naama returns to the same monument where the infidelity took place; there, her parents appear before her.

— Katie Campione, Deadline, 4 Aug. 2026
In June, The New York Times spoke to multiple women who accused Platner of physical intimidation, infidelity and disturbing comments.

— Antonio Pequeño IV, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

Definition of infidelity

Noun

The movie itself disappoints him for its deviations from the Stephen King novel (including this detail may help preempt criticisms over this adaptation), but he’s also distracted by the presence of a strikingly handsome stranger (Homer Gere).

— Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 6 Aug. 2026
Leaders need a baseline of normal behavior for each agent and the ability to detect deviation from that baseline.

— Steve Wilson, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of deviation

Noun

This is one of the most common misconceptions that beginner foragers have about types of edible mushrooms.

— Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 6 Aug. 2026
The misconception is that high-efficiency equipment alone ensures an efficient home; however, the entire system, including ductwork and building enclosure, must work together.

— Brynn Cooksey, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of misconception

Browse Nearby Words

apostasies

apostasy

apostate

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Style

“Apostasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/apostasy. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of apostasy

noun

Example Sentences

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