FELLOW ATHEISTS.. :) Is 'atheist' a noun or an adjective?

Question

I've seen the following sentences before and I want to know which one is right:

I am atheist.
I am ~an~ atheist.

thankyouuu.

Answer 1

I think most atheists tend to take an atheist viewpoint, so it's either, depending on whether you wish to describe yourself as one who takes the atheist perspective, or to label yourself as an atheist and nothing else.

Answer 2

eh. i'm no longer so valuable. Theist is a noun. Theistic is the adjective form of that noun. Atheist is in basic terms putting the "a" prefix onto theist. "a" as in the negation of, or no longer. An person may be an atheist (noun). you're atheistic (adjective)

Answer 3

It's generally used as a noun, as are most words with the "~ist" suffix. The adjective is "atheistic".

Answer 4

Technically, it is a noun. The adjectival form is "atheistic", but popular usage prefers not to type the extra letters.

Answer 5

I think atheist is a noun. I am an atheist. If you want an adjective, use 'atheistic'. I am atheistic. 'I am atheist' sounds clumsy to me.

Answer 6

Since "atheist" is a noun, "an atheist."

I was an English major! :P

Answer 7

It's acceptable either way, but since I see it as a way to describe one aspect of myself rather than who I am I try to use it as an adjective.

I am atheist.

Answer 8

It's a noun. The 2nd one is right.

Answer 9

It can be an adjective as well. Ex. My atheist neighbors. . .

Answer 10

It's both, though of the sentences you give as examples, the second is correct.