iconoclast
/aɪˈkɒnəˌklæst/
NOUN
1. A destroyer of religious images
A person who destroys or opposes religious images, icons, or sacred representations, particularly because of religious beliefs or objections to their use.
1.1. Religious opposition to images and icons
A person who rejects the use of religious images or actively campaigns against their display and veneration.
Synonyms
- image-breaker
- icon-smashers
Antonyms
- iconophile
- image-worshipper
Examples
- The historical iconoclasts opposed the veneration of religious images.
Related Words
- iconoclasm
- iconoclast
- idolatry
- religious reform
- icon
- sacred image
- iconodule
NOUN
2. A person who challenges established beliefs
Someone who questions, attacks, or rejects widely accepted beliefs, traditions, institutions, or conventional ways of thinking.
2.1. Opposition to conventional ideas
A person who challenges established opinions, accepted doctrines, and traditional ways of thinking rather than following prevailing beliefs.
Synonyms
- dissenter
- dissident
- heretic
- freethinker
- nonconformist
- rebel
- maverick
- individualist
- radical
- revolutionist
- critic
Antonyms
- conformist
- conformer
- follower
- adherent
- believer
Examples
- She was known in the art world as a fearless iconoclast, challenging traditional forms with her avant-garde sculptures.
- The literary critic gained a reputation as an intellectual iconoclast for his bold critiques of classic literature.
- The young musician emerged as an iconoclast, blending genres and defying conventional music norms.
- In the business world, he became an iconoclast by revolutionizing traditional marketing strategies.
Related Words
- iconoclasm
- nonconformity
- dissent
- heterodoxy
- rebellion
- defiance
- orthodoxy
- conventionality
- reformist