pagan
A pagan is someone who doesn't believe in a single god or supreme being. They might have their own spiritual practices and traditions.
You probably think of pagans as people living in tribes thousands of years ago, but actually, the word "pagan" describes a person from any time period, whether they live in a city or the countryside. These days, you can meet modern-day pagans who practice nature-based spirituality, celebrating solstices and equinoxes, honoring deities like the sun or moon, and believing in magic. Some might call themselves Wiccans or follow other specific traditions within the pagan community. What's important to them is connecting with something bigger than themselves – often the natural world – rather than following a particular set of rules or dogma.
How common is "pagan"?
It appears most frequently in academic texts and less often in other writings.
noun
A person not adhering to a main world religion; a follower of a pantheistic or nature-worshipping religion.
Example: This community has a surprising number of pagans.
adjective
Relating to, characteristic of religions that differ from main world religions.
Example: Many converted societies transformed their pagan deities into saints.
Real examples of "pagan" in context
