1. a person who holds beliefs that contradict the official teachings of a religion, especially Christianity
Usage: religious context
2. a person who holds opinions that go against accepted beliefs or principles in any field
Usage: general usage

Examples

• The church condemned him as a heretic for questioning official doctrine.
• Joan of Arc was burned at the stake after being declared a heretic.
• In medieval times, being labeled a heretic could result in severe punishment.
• The scientist was considered a heretic for challenging established theories.
• His radical political views made him a heretic among his conservative colleagues.
• The artist was seen as a heretic for breaking traditional painting conventions.