How Do You Spell HEATHENDOM?

Pronunciation: [hˈiːθəndəm] (IPA)

Heathendom is a term used to describe the collective belief systems of non-Christians, particularly those of ancient or traditional societies. The word is pronounced /ˈhiːðəndəm/ and is spelled with a combination of silent consonants including the "h" at the beginning of the word and the "d" at the end. The "ea" in heathen is pronounced /iː/ as in "sea" and the "o" in the suffix "-dom" is pronounced /əm/, creating a flow of sounds that is both unusual and difficult to decipher for non-native speakers.

HEATHENDOM Meaning and Definition

1. Heathendom is a noun that refers to the collective state or realm of being a heathen. It is primarily used in religious contexts to describe the faith or practices of those who do not adhere to established or mainstream religions, particularly within Western religious frameworks. The term "heathen" itself originated from Old English, meaning "of the heath" or "inhabitant of the heath." It was initially used by Christians to designate individuals or groups who did not adhere to Christianity or were seen as adhering to a non-Christian religion.

   Heathendom is often used in a derogatory or dismissive manner, reflecting a judgmental or negative attitude towards non-Christian religions or those who follow alternative belief systems. It suggests a lack of spiritual enlightenment or adherence to societal norms and values as perceived by the dominant religious group.

   However, it is important to note that the term is subjective and carries inherent biases based on a particular religious perspective. It does not take into account the rich diversity of beliefs and practices that fall outside the definition of mainstream religions.

   In contemporary usage, the term "heathendom" is less common and may be considered outdated or offensive by those seeking to promote religious tolerance and inclusivity.

2. • Heathenism.

   • Heathenish.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HEATHENDOM

• geathendom
• beathendom
• neathendom
• jeathendom
• ueathendom
• yeathendom
• hwathendom
• hsathendom
• hdathendom
• hrathendom
• h4athendom
• h3athendom
• hezthendom
• hesthendom
• hewthendom
• heqthendom
• hearhendom
• heafhendom
• heaghendom
• hethendom
• Hedehendom
• Heathdom
• Hetendom
• Heathendem
• Habendom

Etymology of HEATHENDOM

The word "Heathendom" is derived from the Old English term "hǣthen", meaning "heathen" or "pagan", and the suffix "-dom", which indicates a state or condition. "Hǣthen" itself traces back to the Proto-Germanic word "*haiþinaz", which referred to someone who followed the traditional indigenous religion rather than Christianity. The term later evolved to convey the concept of non-Christians or those who practice a different religion than the dominant one in a particular culture or society.

Plural form of HEATHENDOM is HEATHENDOMS