Iconoclast
hardeye-KON-uh-klast
noun
Definition
A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or institutions
Examples
“The artist was an iconoclast who challenged conventional beauty standards.”
“As an iconoclast, she questioned every established practice.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Iconoclast is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "nonconformist" or "dissenter" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "conformist".
Related GRE Words
heretic
A person holding an opinion at odds with what is generally accepted
maverick
An unorthodox or independent-minded person
heterodox
Not conforming with accepted or orthodox standards or beliefs
subvert
To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution
unorthodox
Contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted
ubiquitous
Present, appearing, or found everywhere
Master iconoclast and 800+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.