# theist

/θˈiːɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/theist
Updated: 2026-04-25

## Definition

a person who believes that at least one god exists. You use this word to describe someone who thinks a divine creator made and watches over the universe.

For teachers: a person who believes in the existence of at least one deity, particularly a creator who intervenes in the universe. Frequently contrasted with an atheist or a deist in theological and philosophical contexts.

## Examples

- As a theist, she prays every morning and attends religious services.
- The debate featured a theist arguing that the universe requires a conscious creator, while the atheist argued that natural laws explain everything.
- While a deist believes in a distant creator who stepped back after framing the universe, a theist typically maintains that God remains actively involved in human affairs and answers prayers.

## Usage notes

- Frequently contrasted with 'atheist' or 'deist'; often takes the prefix 'mono-' or 'poly-' to specify the number of deities worshipped.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.