heathenry

/ˈhiːðənri/
noun
  1. The state or quality of being a heathen; lack of religion or adherence to a religion not considered mainstream, especially in a historical or disapproving context.
    • The old missionary wrote about the heathenry of the tribes he encountered.
    • Some people still use the word heathenry to describe a lack of religious belief.
    • In medieval times, anyone who did not follow Christianity was accused of heathenry.
  2. Modern pagan religions, especially those that reconstruct ancient Germanic or Norse traditions (often capitalized as Heathenry).
    • Heathenry has grown in popularity as people explore pre-Christian spiritual paths.
    • She wrote a book about the history and practices of modern Heathenry.
    • Many followers of Heathenry celebrate festivals based on the old Norse calendar.
  3. Uncivilized or barbaric behavior; ignorance or lack of culture.
    • The explorer described the local customs as heathenry, but he was biased.
    • Calling someone's traditions heathenry is often a way to insult them.
    • The novel portrayed the invaders as bringing civilization to a land of heathenry.
What does "heathenry" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean