Apostasy \A*pos"ta*sy\, n.; pl. {Apostasies}. [OE. apostasie, F.
apostasie, L. apostasia, fr. Gr. ? a standing off from, a
defection, fr. ? to stand off, revolt; ? from + ? to stand.
See {Off} and {Stand}.]
An abandonment of what one has voluntarily professed; a total
desertion of departure from one's faith, principles, or
party; esp., the renunciation of a religious faith; as,
Julian's apostasy from Christianity.
[1913 Webster]