1. the lands, peoples, or cultures considered heathen or non-Christian; the realm or domain of heathens
Usage: often used historically or in religious contexts; can be considered dated or offensive in modern usage
2. heathen beliefs, practices, or ways of life collectively
Usage: archaic or literary

Examples

• Medieval missionaries sought to bring Christianity to heathendom.
• The explorer's accounts described the customs of heathendom with fascination.
• In historical texts, heathendom often referred to non-European regions.
• The contrast between Christendom and heathendom shaped medieval worldviews.
• Scholars today recognize that the term heathendom reflects outdated perspectives.
• The novel depicted the clash between heathendom and colonial expansion.