1797 in reference to an act of breaking or destroying idols physically; figuratively from 1858 in reference to beliefs, cherished institutions, etc.; see iconoclast. An older word for it was iconomach [..]

The doctrine or practice of attacking settled beliefs or institutions. Related: Nadar (Gaspard-Félix Tournachon). Théophile Gautier. 1855

The destruciton of icons; iconoclasm was a policy of some Byzantine emperors between 725 and 842; eventually repudiated by the Christian churches of the medieval east and west.    (Lynch, Joseph H [..]

A Christian religious movement opposed to the veneration of images (icons) of Christ and the saints. Intense controversy over the legitimacy of icons lasted for over a century (726‑843 CE) in the Byza [..]

(n) the orientation of an iconoclast

the destruction of works of art on the grounds that they are impious. During the 16th

An view that religious images can have negative effects, which sometimes involves destroying them. (adjective iconoclastic). Iconography

The deliberate destruction of religious icons (statues and relics

This term refers to the banning or destruction of icons and religious art.

The troubled word Iconoclasm is summed up as the rationale behind-, planning and participating in the destruction of religious icons and symbols. The motives for doing so may be political or religious [..]