apostate
UK: əˈpɒsteɪt | US: əˈpɑːsteɪt
n. a person who renounces a religious or political belief or principle
n. one who abandons a previous loyalty or commitment
The word "apostate" originates from the Greek apostasia (defection, revolt), combining apo ("away") and stasis ("standing"). It entered Late Latin as apostata, referring to someone who "stands away" from their faith or allegiance. The term evolved in Middle English to describe abandonment of religious or ideological principles, retaining its core idea of departure from a steadfast position.
The once-devout monk was branded an apostate after publicly rejecting the church’s teachings.
Political leaders accused him of being an apostate for switching parties during the election.
In history, apostates were often exiled or punished for their dissent.
She wrote a memoir explaining her journey from believer to apostate.
The cult viewed any member who left as an irredeemable apostate.