Word: iconoclast
Pronunciation: ai-KAH-nə-klast
Part of Speech: noun
Definition: a person who attacks cherished beliefs or institutions
Source: Oxford Dictionaries
Here’s a word that’s made it on many vocabulary prep lists, or at least the ones I’ve studied. I remember always being intrigued by this word when I came across it in my flashcard stacks because it sounded so unusual and poetic. Of course, its definition isn’t quite as lyrical as its tone might suggest; I’d be interested in reading about an “iconoclast”, but not in being one!
An “iconoclast” is someone who criticizes or attacks cherished institutions or beliefs. The word arose in the mid 17th century in the sense “destroyer of religious figures” and comes from the Greek noun eikonoklástēs, meaning “breaker of images”. This noun in turn comprises the noun eikṓn “figure” and the verb klázō “to break”.
Aside from its primary definition, “iconoclast” can also refer to “a destroyer of images used in religious worship”. Oxford Dictionaries’ entry lists two historical examples as sub-definitions: 1) “a supporter of the 8th- and 9th-century movement in the Byzantine Church that sought to abolish the veneration of icons and other religious images”, and 2) “a Puritan of the 16th or 17th century”. If you’ve created a character who attacks or criticizes certain religious beliefs, institutions, or images, you’re definitely writing an “iconoclast” into your stories!
What are your thoughts on this word? Any suggestions for future “Word of the Week” featured words?
I’ve heard this word before but didn’t know the definition. How interesting. =)
It was the same for me the first few times I read it. I finally made a note to look it up and eventually include it in my Word of the Week segment. Thanks for reading! 🙂
An interesting word, and probably not one that comes into too many everyday conversations. I like the way you’ve described how some of us could have created characters who are iconoclasts without realising it.
You’ve kept going well with your word of the week posts, JC, I haven’t done one for over a year, although I’d love to start them up again. I stopped due to lack of time – but I do miss doing them
Thanks, Millie! Sorry to hear you haven’t been keeping up your Word of the Week posts. I hope you decide to take it up again; I’d love to read more about your favorite words! Thanks for reading! 🙂