Definition

Noun: 1. A follower or adherent of Satan or Satanism: A person who worships Satan or practices Satanism, a religious or ideological system centered on the figure of Satan, often involving the rejection of conventional religious beliefs.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The novel's antagonist was portrayed as a satanist who performed dark rituals.
  • Some historical witch trials falsely accused people of being satanists.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in sociological or religious studies contexts to describe individuals associated with specific, organized groups that venerate Satan as a symbol of rebellion, individualism, or a specific principle, rather than a literal supernatural being.
  • The academic paper examined the modern satanist's reinterpretation of Satan as a symbol of enlightenment and free will.

Variants and Related Words

• Satanism (n): The religious practice, doctrine, or ideology associated with the worship of Satan or the veneration of Satan as a symbol.
  • LaVeyan Satanism is a well-known form of Satanism.

Synonyms

• Diabolist: A person who is devoted to or worships the devil.
• Devil-worshipper: A term with a similar meaning, though often used in a more sensational or pejorative context.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "satanist" can carry strong negative connotations and is frequently used in polemical contexts. It is important to distinguish between the sensationalized use of the term and its use by self-identified adherents of specific Satanic traditions. Some modern Satanic groups are atheistic and view Satan as a symbolic figure representing traits like skepticism and personal autonomy, rather than a literal deity.

Noun

1. an adherent of Satan or Satanism