neopaganism
C2Formal, Academic, Technical (Religious Studies)
Definition
Meaning
A modern religious movement that seeks to revive or reconstruct historical polytheistic, pagan, or nature-based spiritual practices.
Refers broadly to a diverse set of contemporary spiritual paths, including Wicca, Druidry, and Heathenry, that emphasize a connection to nature, pre-Christian deities, and ritual practices. It often functions as an umbrella term for these modern movements distinct from their historical antecedents.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is neutral but carries a scholarly tone. It is distinct from "paganism," which can refer to ancient practices. The prefix "neo-" explicitly marks it as a modern revival or reconstruction.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
In both varieties, it is primarily a descriptive, academic term. In popular discourse, it may carry the same connotations as 'paganism' (e.g., nature-worship, non-Abrahamic).
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to discussions of religion, anthropology, and contemporary spirituality.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[follow/practice] + neopaganismneopaganism + [is based on/derives from]the + [rise/growth] + of neopaganismVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, anthropology, and sociology to classify and analyse modern spiritual movements.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used by individuals involved in or discussing alternative spiritualities.
Technical
A precise classificatory term in comparative religion and studies of new religious movements (NRMs).
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- No direct verb form. Use phrases like 'practise neopaganism'.
- Some may verbify informally: 'She neo-paganises her approach to the seasons.' (Highly non-standard)
American English
- No direct verb form. Use phrases like 'follow neopaganism'.
- Informal coinage: 'He's into neopaganizing old folk rituals.' (Non-standard)
adverb
British English
- No standard adverb. Use adjectivally: 'She approached it from a neopagan perspective.'
American English
- No standard adverb. Use prepositional phrases: 'They worshipped in a neopagan way.'
adjective
British English
- neopagan beliefs
- a neopagan community in Somerset
American English
- neopagan groups
- neopagan festivals like Pagan Pride Day
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Neopaganism is a new religion about nature.
- Some people follow neopaganism and celebrate the changing seasons.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
"NEO" means new (like in 'Neolithic' = new stone age). "PAGANISM" refers to old, pre-Christian nature religions. So, NEO+PAGANISM = a NEW version of OLD nature religions.
Conceptual Metaphor
RELIGION IS A LIVING TRADITION (that can be revived/reconstructed). SPIRITUALITY IS A PATH/JOURNEY (often used by adherents).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'неоязычество' in informal English contexts, as the English term is formal/scholarly. In Russian, the term is more established in general discourse.
- Do not confuse with 'paganism' (язычество) alone, as that typically refers to historical practices.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'neo-paganism' (hyphenated form is acceptable but less common in academic writing).
- Confusing it with 'Satanism' (they are distinct; most neopagan traditions do not involve Satan).
- Using it as a pejorative term.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary emphasis of most neopagan traditions?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Wicca is one specific tradition within the broader category of neopaganism. Neopaganism is an umbrella term that includes Wicca, Druidry, Heathenry, and others.
Typically, no. Satan is a figure from Christian theology. Most neopagan traditions focus on pre-Christian deities and nature spirits, not on the Christian dichotomy of God vs. Satan.
No. The practices are inspired by ancient pagan religions, but neopaganism itself is a modern movement that began its significant development in the mid-20th century.
It is studied as a legitimate new religious movement (NRM) within the fields of religious studies, sociology of religion, and anthropology. Scholars analyse its beliefs, practices, and social dynamics.