We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

infidel

Pronunciation: /ˈɪnfɪd(ə)l/

chiefly archaic

Definition of infidel

noun

a person who has no religion or whose religion is not that of the majority:a crusade against infidels and heretics

adjective

adhering to a religion other than that of the majority:the infidel foe

Origin:

late 15th century: from French infidèle or Latin infidelis, from in- 'not' + fidelis 'faithful' (from fides 'faith', related to fidere 'to trust'). The word originally denoted a person of a religion other than one's own, specifically a Muslim (to a Christian), a Christian (to a Muslim), or a Gentile (to a Jew)