Advertisement

nonconformist (n.)

also non-conformist, "one who does not conform to some law or usage," 1610s, originally and especially of clergymen who adhered to Church of England doctrine but not its practice, from non- + conformist. After their ejection under the Act of Uniformity (1662) the name passed to the separate churches they joined or formed. In general use from 1670s as "one who does not participate in a practice or course of action." As an adjective from 1640s. Shortened form non-con is attested from 1680s.

Others are reading

Advertisement
Definitions of nonconformist from WordNet
1
nonconformist (adj.)
not conforming to some norm or socially approved pattern of behavior or thought;
their rabidly nonconformist deportment has made them legendary
the old stubborn nonconformist spirit of the early settlers
Synonyms: unconformist
nonconformist (adj.)
not conforming to established customs or doctrines especially in religion;
Synonyms: nonconforming
2
nonconformist (n.)
someone who refuses to conform to established standards of conduct;
Synonyms: recusant
3
Nonconformist (n.)
a Protestant in England who is not a member of the Church of England;
Synonyms: chapelgoer
From wordnet.princeton.edu