In Christian theology, a heresiarch (also hæresiarch, according to the Oxford English Dictionary; from Greek: αἱρεσιάρχης, hairesiárkhēs via the late Latin haeresiarcha[1]) or arch-heretic is an originator …

The meaning of HERESIARCH is an originator or chief advocate of a heresy.

heresiarch (n.) "arch-heretic; leader in heresy," 1620s, from Church Latin haeresiarcha, from Late Greek hairesiarkhes "leader of a school;" in classical use chiefly a medical school; in ecclesiastical writers, …

Oct 1, 2025 · Heresiarch, according to Christianity, refers to individuals who deviate from orthodox beliefs, becoming leaders of heretical groups that promote theological deviations.

Jan 27, 2026 · Noun heresiarch (plural heresiarchs) (religion) The founder of a heresy, or a major ecclesiastical proponent of such a heresy. [from mid 16th c.] Synonym: arch-heretic

In Christian theology, particularly within patristic and conciliar traditions, a heresiarch denotes the founder or chief proponent of a heresy, actively disseminating doctrines deemed contrary to apostolic …

heresiarch (hɪˈriːzɪˌɑːk) n (Alternative Belief Systems) the leader or originator of a heretical movement or sect

Heresiarch definition: One who originates or is the chief proponent of a heresy or heretical movement.

HERESIARCH The original expounder or promoter of a major heresy that was later condemned by the Church, e.g., Arius, Nestorius, Pelagius.

heresiarch, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary