First Known Use: 13th century
Dictionary
religion
noun re·li·gion \ri-ˈli-jən\
: the belief in a god or in a group of gods
: an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or a group of gods
: an interest, a belief, or an activity that is very important to a person or group
Full Definition of RELIGION
1
a : the state of a religious <a nun in her 20th year of religion> b (1) : the service and worship of God or the supernatural (2) : commitment or devotion to religious faith or observance
2
: a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices
3
archaic : scrupulous conformity : conscientiousness
4
: a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith
— re·li·gion·less adjective
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Origin of RELIGION
Middle English religioun, from Anglo-French religiun, Latin religion-, religio supernatural constraint, sanction, religious practice, perhaps from religare to restrain, tie back — more at rely
Related to RELIGION
- Synonyms
- credo, creed, cult, faith, persuasion
- Antonyms
- atheism, godlessness
Other Religion (Eastern and Other) Terms
Rhymes with RELIGION
RELIGIONLESS Defined for Kids
religion
noun re·li·gion \ri-ˈli-jən\
Definition of RELIGION for Kids
1
: the belief in and worship of God or gods
2
: a system of religious beliefs and practices
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