iconoclasts
/aɪˈkɒnəˌklæsts/
NOUN
1. People who destroy religious images
People who oppose or destroy religious images, icons, or sacred representations, particularly because of religious beliefs or objections to their veneration.
1.1. Religious opposition to sacred images
People who reject the use or veneration of religious images and may advocate their removal or destruction.
Synonyms
- image-breakers
- icon-smashers
Antonyms
- iconophiles
- image-worshippers
Examples
- The historical iconoclasts opposed the veneration of religious images.
Related Words
- iconoclasm
- iconoclast
- iconoclasts
- idolatry
- iconography
- religious reform
- sacred images
NOUN
2. People who challenge established beliefs and conventions
People who oppose accepted beliefs, traditional practices, or established institutions, especially by questioning cherished ideas and prevailing standards.
2.1. Nonconformity and independent thinking
People who reject conventional expectations and follow independent ideas, lifestyles, or principles rather than conforming to prevailing norms.
Synonyms
- nonconformists
- nonconformers
- individualists
- freethinkers
- mavericks
- eccentrics
- bohemians
- free spirits
- outsiders
- misfits
Antonyms
- conformists
- conformers
- followers
- adherents
- sheep
Examples
- The art exhibition featured a diverse group of iconoclasts, each challenging artistic traditions in their own way.
- Throughout history, iconoclasts have played a crucial role in reshaping societal norms and perspectives.
Related Words
2.2. Religious and ideological dissent
People who reject orthodox religious doctrines or challenge established systems of belief and authority.
Synonyms
- heretics
- dissenters
- dissidents
- apostates
- unbelievers
- schismatics
Antonyms
- adherents
- supporters
- followers
Examples
- The political movement attracted a coalition of iconoclasts united by a desire for radical change.
Related Words
- apostates
- defectors
- infidels
- sectarians
- separatists
- misbelievers
- heresy
- heterodoxy
2.3. Artistic and cultural innovation
People who challenge established artistic, literary, musical, or cultural conventions through unconventional ideas and creative approaches.
Synonyms
- mavericks
- bohemians
- free spirits
- eccentrics
- individualists
- enfants terribles
Antonyms
- conformists
- followers
Examples
- The panel discussion brought together a group of literary iconoclasts to explore the boundaries of storytelling.
- The music festival celebrated the work of avant-garde musicians and electronic iconoclasts.
Related Words
- counterculturists
- crackpots
- crackbrains
- characters
- anomalies
- aberrants