apikores
|a-pi-ko-res|
🇺🇸
/əˈpɪkərəs/
🇬🇧
/əˈpɪkərɒs/
(apikoros)
religious heretic
Etymology
'apikores' originates from Hebrew, specifically the word 'אפיקורס' (apikoros), which ultimately derives from the Greek name 'Epikouros' (Epicurus), the philosopher.
'apikores' changed from the Greek name 'Epikouros' to a medieval Hebrew/Yiddish term 'apikoros'/'apikores' meaning an Epicurean or skeptic, and eventually entered modern English usage as 'apikores'.
Initially, it referred to a follower of Epicurus (an Epicurean) or someone associated with skeptical/philosophical unbelief; over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'heretic' or 'religious nonbeliever'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a heretic or unbeliever, especially in a Jewish religious context; someone who rejects or denies fundamental religious beliefs.
The community considered him an apikores for openly questioning the Torah's teachings.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/17 20:10