OpenSynonym

iconoclasm

/aɪˈkɒnəˌklæzəm/

NOUN

1. Destruction of religious images and symbols

The belief in, practice of, or approval of destroying religious images, icons, monuments, or other symbols, usually for religious or political reasons. The term also refers more broadly to challenging established traditions, beliefs, and conventions.

1.1. Rejection of established beliefs and traditions

A deliberate challenge to accepted doctrines, conventional ideas, or long-standing social and cultural traditions.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • conformity
  • orthodoxy
  • conventionality
  • compliance
  • conservatism

Examples

  • The controversial art exhibit was an exploration of radical ideas and iconoclasm.
  • The philosopher challenged conventional beliefs with his intellectual iconoclasm.
  • In the face of societal norms, her poetry embodied a spirit of poetic iconoclasm.
  • The political movement aimed at dismantling traditional structures was fueled by a spirit of iconoclasm.

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