iconoclast
UK: /aɪˈkɒn.ə.klæst/ | US: /aɪˈkɑː.nə.klæst/
n. 1. A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or institutions.
n. 2. Historically, a destroyer of religious images or icons.
iconoclast = icon<image> + o<connecting vowel> + clast<breaker>
- icon (from Greek eikōn, meaning "image" or "representation")
- o (a connecting vowel, often used in Greek-derived compounds)
- clast (from Greek klastēs, meaning "breaker" or "destroyer")
Etymology Origin:
The term iconoclast originated in the Byzantine Empire during the 8th–9th centuries, when religious reformers (iconoclasts) opposed the veneration of religious icons, leading to their destruction. The word combines icon (representing sacred images) and clast (breaker), reflecting its literal and figurative meanings—both physical destruction of icons and metaphorical opposition to established traditions.
The artist was considered an iconoclast for rejecting traditional painting techniques.
Historical iconoclasts destroyed countless religious artworks during the Byzantine conflicts.
As a political iconoclast, she challenged the party’s long-held policies.
Modern tech innovators are often seen as iconoclasts disrupting old industries.
His iconoclastic views on education sparked heated debates.