iconoclasm

noun

Definition of iconoclasmnext
as in deviation

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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 iconoclasm When oppressive regimes do collapse, the first thing people tend to do is topple the statues; this literal iconoclasm becomes an outlet for their relief and rage. — Gal Beckerman, The Atlantic, 8 Feb. 2026 Studio 54 has a history drenched in iconoclasm, and now, Valentino fragrances. — Essence, 12 Sep. 2025 In that regard Stern is not unlike South Park, another once-famous piece of iconoclasm that, until recent negotiation headlines, many of us couldn’t even say definitively was still on the air. — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 13 Aug. 2025 My mother’s iconoclasm shaped my attitude toward life, including my taste in music. — Santi Elijah Holley, New York Times, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for iconoclasm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for iconoclasm
  1. deviation
  2. deviance
  3. unconventionality
  4. apostasy
  5. schism
  6. discord
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
  • Per the logline, the series will explore themes of privilege, manipulation, and deviance to understand why these women become calculated killers.
    — Peter White, Deadline, 11 May 2026
  • In sociology, Gideon chose a concentration in crime and deviance.
    — Jenelyn Russo, Oc Register, 30 Apr. 2026
Definition of deviance
Noun
  • Narayan’s bittersweet love story about a hapless painter’s crush on an emotionally distant social worker has lost none of its humor, relevance, or unconventionality.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 27 May 2026
  • Santee Alley was born out of unconventionality with its makeshift stores designed to break retail rules.
    — Lilliam Rivera, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026
Definition of unconventionality
Noun
  • When every disagreement with Israeli government policy became, in your telling, the first step toward apostasy?
    — Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 6 July 2026
  • Marc makes an example of the penitent, powerless Jeanne, reminding the rest of his flock of the punishment for apostasy and using her rough time among the heathens as proof of why none under his control should ever want to trade his order for such modern sin and depravity.
    — Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 15 May 2026
Definition of apostasy
Noun
  • Millions of pilgrims converge on the holy city of Karbala, south of Baghdad, for Arbaeen, the 40th day of mourning for the killing of Imam Hussein 14 centuries ago, a definitive event in the schism between Shia and Sunni Islam.
    — Jane Arraf, NPR, 30 July 2026
  • To waste all these resources on some esoteric arty thing, that’s when the schism started to happen for me.
    — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 29 July 2026
Definition of schism
Noun
  • Meena said his contract was terminated prematurely, a dispute highlighting internal discord.
    — Catherine Muccigrosso July 24, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026
  • But mounting turmoil and discord have been a part of this transformative period that has featured a landmark collective bargaining agreement, league expansion and skyrocketing player recognition.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 July 2026
Definition of discord

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Cite this Entry

“Iconoclasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/iconoclasm. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on iconoclasm

Nglish: Translation of iconoclasm for Spanish Speakers

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