# paganism

/ˈpeɪɡəˌnɪzəm/ (US) · /pˈeɪɡənˌɪzəm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paganism
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. polytheistic religions

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

religious beliefs that involve many gods, especially those from ancient times or local cultures.

For teachers: any of various polytheistic or indigenous religions, particularly those of ancient Europe or the Near East that predated Christianity.

- The historian studied the transition from ancient paganism to Christianity in the Roman Empire.
- Scholars often debate the extent to which elements of Germanic paganism were absorbed into the local folklore of the Middle Ages.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general concept, but countable when referring to specific traditions.

## Examples

- The ancient people practiced a form of paganism.
- Scholars study the remnants of paganism in modern folklore and seasonal festivals.
- The transition from paganism to monotheism often involved the systematic suppression of traditional rituals and the reclassification of local spirits as demonic entities.

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