1. a person who does not follow established customs, beliefs, or practices
2. a member of a Protestant church that does not conform to the Church of England
Usage: historical; British

1. not following established customs, beliefs, or practices

Examples

• The artist was known as a nonconformist who rejected traditional painting techniques.
• Her nonconformist attitude made her stand out in the conservative workplace.
• Many nonconformists left England to seek religious freedom in America.
• He took pride in his nonconformist views on education reform.
• The school encouraged nonconformist thinking among its students.
• Nonconformist churches played an important role in 17th-century England.
• She wore nonconformist clothing that expressed her unique personality.