atheism
UK[ˈeɪθiɪzəm]US[ˈeɪθiɪzəm]
n
the belief that there is no god or gods
n
the philosophical position that rejects theism
Morpheme Breakdown
a
the
ism
a
without
the
god
ism
belief system
Etymology
the word 'atheism' is a compound formed from greek components. the prefix 'a-' functions as a privative, negating the root that follows. the core root 'the-' derives from the greek noun 'theos', which referred to a god or divine being. the suffix '-ism' was used to form abstract nouns denoting a practice, system, or doctrine. therefore, the term's literal construction means "the doctrine or state of being without god." it entered english in the late 16th century via french 'athéisme', directly reflecting the greek 'atheos' (godless), and has been used to denote the philosophical rejection of belief in deities.
Analysis
Structure: a (without) + the (god) + ism (belief system)
a- (prefix): from greek, meaning "without" or "not"; a negative prefix.
the- (root): from greek 'theos', meaning "god" or "deity".
-ism (suffix): from greek '-ismos', forming nouns of action, state, or doctrine; indicates a system of belief or practice.
Examples
his atheism was a deeply considered philosophical stance, not a reaction to religion.
the debate focused on the arguments for and against atheism.
atheism is often contrasted with theism and agnosticism in discussions of belief.