Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /əˈpɒstəsi/
KK: /əˈpɑːstəsi/
Definition
The act of rejecting or abandoning a religious faith or belief.
Example
His apostasy shocked his family, who had always been devout.
Conversation

Have you ever thought about the concept of apostacy in different cultures?

Yeah, it's interesting how some people see it as a serious offense while others are more lenient.

Right? It makes me wonder how beliefs can change over time.

Totally! It's fascinating to see how personal beliefs can lead to such different views on apostacy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
defection
renunciation
abandonment
Antonyms
faithfulness
loyalty
devotion
Root Explanation
Apostasy → It is formed from "apo-" (meaning away from) and "stasis" (meaning standing or standing firm). The word refers to the act of standing away from or abandoning a religious faith or belief.
Memory Tip
Think of 'standing away' ('apo-') from a belief or faith — that's why apostasy means abandoning one's religious beliefs.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.