Agnostic - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Agnostic refers to someone who believes the existence of God or ultimate truths is unknown or unknowable. It can also describe a neutral stance on any disputed matter.
Definition:
Someone who believes the existence of God or ultimate truth is unknown or unknowable.
Synonyms:
skeptic, doubter, unbeliever
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective
Antonyms:
believer, theist
Common Collocations:
agnostic viewpoint, agnostic approach, agnostic position
Derivatives:
agnosticism, agnostically
Usage Tips:
Use "agnostic" to describe someone uncertain about religious beliefs or as an adjective for neutrality in other contexts (e.g., "platform-agnostic").
Common Phrases:
agnostic about, technologically agnostic, religiously agnostic
Etymology:
From Greek "agnōstos," meaning "unknown," coined by Thomas Huxley in the 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. She identifies as agnostic rather than atheist.
- 2. His agnostic views make him open to all religious discussions.
- 3. The software is device-agnostic and works on any platform.
- 4. Many scientists remain agnostic about the origins of the universe.