1. people who disagree with or oppose an official opinion, decision, or set of beliefs
2. members of Protestant churches that separated from the Church of England
Usage: historical; religious

Examples

• The dissenters voiced their concerns during the town hall meeting.
• Several dissenters on the committee refused to sign the proposal.
• Political dissenters were often persecuted under the authoritarian regime.
• The dissenters formed their own religious communities in the 17th century.
• Many dissenters emigrated to America seeking religious freedom.
• The judge listened carefully to the dissenters’ arguments.
• Historical dissenters like the Puritans faced significant persecution.