infidel
UK: ˈɪnfɪd(ə)l | US: ˈɪnfɪd(ə)l
n. 1. A person who does not believe in a particular religion, especially one who is not a Christian, Muslim, or Jew.
n. 2. (archaic) An unbeliever or skeptic in general.
infidel = in<not> + fid<faith> + el<noun suffix>
- in: Latin prefix meaning "not" or "without."
- fid: Derived from Latin fides (faith, trust).
- el: Noun-forming suffix, often indicating a person (e.g., "infidel" as "one without faith").
Etymology Origin:
The word "infidel" traces back to Late Latin infidelis ("unfaithful"), combining in- (negation) + fidelis (faithful). It entered Middle English via Old French, originally describing non-Christians during the Crusades. The morphemes reflect a clear dichotomy: fid (faith) as the core, framed by negation (in-) and personhood (-el).
Medieval crusaders often labeled Muslims as infidels.
The term "infidel" carries strong historical and religious connotations.
He was criticized as an infidel for rejecting traditional beliefs.
In some cultures, marrying an infidel was strictly forbidden.
Modern usage of "infidel" is often considered pejorative.