Synonyms of heretical

heretical

adjective

hə-ˈre-ti-kəl 

variants also heretic

as in dissident

deviating from commonly accepted beliefs or practices

the belief that women should be allowed to have careers outside the home was once considered heretical

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dissident
• unconventional
• dissenting
• out-there
• iconoclastic
• heterodox
• nonconformist
• maverick
• unorthodox
• separatist
• dissentient
• nontraditional
• sectarian
• apostate
• schismatic
• nonorthodox
• freethinking
• renegade
• free-spirited
• defecting

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• orthodox
• conventional
• conformist
• conforming

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of heretical

That led to cycles of reform and renovation, as well as backlash, chiefly from cultural conservatives, who saw the adoption of western European habits and attitudes as abominable and even heretical. — Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026

In the 14th century, Bibles in English became associated with John Wycliffe, a priest who criticized corruption in the Catholic Church, and whose views on Holy Communion the church had declared heretical. — Michael Bruening, The Conversation, 30 June 2026

This point can sound almost heretical in modern healthcare discourse, where prevention is frequently framed as both morally superior and financially inevitable. — Jeffrey Wessler, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Across Bavaria, breweries, beer gardens and festivals are adjusting to a reality that would have sounded almost heretical not so long ago. — David Dickstein, Oc Register, 10 June 2026