How Do You Spell ICONOCLASTS?

Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪkənˌɒklasts] (IPA)

Iconoclasts is a word that is spelled with a combination of letters that can be tricky to pronounce. The first syllable, "i-co," is pronounced with a long "i" sound, like "eye." The second syllable, "no," is pronounced with a short "o" sound, like "ah." The final syllable, "clasts," is pronounced with a short "a" sound, like "cat," and a "sts" sound at the end, like "lists." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /aɪˈkɒn.ə.klæsts/.

ICONOCLASTS Meaning and Definition

1. Iconoclasts are individuals who challenge or oppose established beliefs, traditions, or norms of their society, often by rejecting or criticizing conventional ideologies. The term "iconoclast" derives from the Greek words "eikṓn" meaning "image" and "klástēs" meaning "breaker" or "smasher."

   In a broader sense, "iconoclasts" can involve people who challenge and question deeply-rooted cultural or religious icons, symbols, or practices. They seek to upend and reform conventional systems, engaging in acts of dissent or rebellion against prevailing dogmas. Iconoclasts often possess strong individuality and display a willingness to confront and dismantle established modes of thinking. Their actions may range from verbal or written criticisms to active participation in protests or movements.

   Iconoclasm has a historical significance, particularly in the context of religious or artistic realms. For instance, in the Byzantine Empire during the 8th and 9th centuries, the Iconoclasts were a movement opposing the veneration of religious images. They believed that the worship of icons was idolatry, and hence sought to destroy them.

   Nevertheless, the term "iconoclasts" encompasses a wider spectrum of critical thinkers and revolutionaries across various domains. Their contributions are often regarded as instrumental for societal progression and stimulating intellectual discourse. While they may face resistance or hostility from more conservative establishments, iconoclasts shape and challenge existing ideologies, paving the way for social, cultural, or intellectual transformations.

Common Misspellings for ICONOCLASTS

• iconoclests
• odonoclasis
• iconoclazms
• iconoclsams
• Iconaclasts
• Iconoclaces
• Iconomoclasts

Etymology of ICONOCLASTS

The word "iconoclasts" is derived from the Greek term "eikonoklastēs" (εἰκονοκλάστης), which can be broken down into two parts:

1. "Eikōn" (εἰκών) means "image" or "icon" in Greek.

2. "Klastēs" (κλάστης) is derived from "klinein" (κλίνειν), which means "to break" or "to destroy" in Greek.

So, the word "iconoclasts" essentially means "image-breakers" or "destroyers of icons". It originated in the Byzantine Empire during the eighth and ninth centuries when there was a controversy over the use of religious images (icons).

Similar spelling words for ICONOCLASTS

• iconoclast,
• iconoclastic,
• iconoclasm.