Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Rejecting any belief in gods: Describes a person, position, or philosophy that denies or disbelieves in the existence of any deity or deities.
   • Related to or characterized by atheism: Pertaining to the doctrine or principles of atheism; typical of or associated with atheists.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • His atheistical views were well-known among his colleagues. (His views rejecting belief in gods were well-known.)
  • The philosopher's writings took an atheistical stance on the origin of the universe. (The writings were characterized by atheism regarding the universe's origin.)
  • She faced criticism for her atheistical leanings in the predominantly religious community. (She faced criticism for her tendencies related to atheism.)

Advanced Usage

• In philosophical or theological discourse: Used to describe arguments, literature, or systems of thought that explicitly oppose theistic belief.
  • The debate centered on the atheistical implications of the new scientific theory.
• As a descriptive term for demeanor or attitude: Can describe a manner or approach that is dismissive of religious concepts.
  • He responded with an atheistical shrug to questions about an afterlife.

Variants and Related Words

• Atheist (noun): A person who disbelieves in the existence of gods.
  • He is a committed atheist.
• Atheism (noun): The disbelief or lack of belief in the existence of gods.
  • Atheism is a core tenet of his worldview.
• Atheistic (adjective): This is a more common variant, essentially synonymous with "atheistical."
  • Atheistic philosophies often explore morality without divine command.

Synonyms

• Godless: Lacking a belief in God or gods; often carries a stronger negative connotation.
• Irreligious: Indifferent or hostile to religion.
• Non-theistic: Not involving belief in a god or gods; a more neutral term.

Antonyms

• Theistic: Relating to or characterized by belief in the existence of a god or gods.
• Religious: Relating to or believing in a religion.
• Pious: Devoutly religious.

Related Phrases

• Atheistical worldview: A comprehensive perspective or philosophy grounded in atheism.
  • His atheistical worldview shaped his approach to ethics.
• To hold atheistical beliefs: To maintain a position of disbelief in deities.
  • They were free to hold atheistical beliefs without persecution.

Adjective

1. rejecting any belief in gods
2. related to or characterized by or given to atheism
   • atheist leanings