In the following question, select the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word "skeptic".

Introduction / Context:
This antonym question tests your understanding of the word "skeptic" and related terms in the field of belief and religion. A "skeptic" is generally someone who doubts or questions accepted beliefs or claims. You must choose the word that best represents the opposite attitude.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: "skeptic".
• Options: "profaner", "heretic", "atheist", "devotee", "iconoclast".
• A skeptic is one who questions, doubts, or withholds belief.
• The antonym must reflect strong belief or devotion, particularly in religious or philosophical contexts.

Concept / Approach:
While "skeptic" emphasises doubt and questioning, the opposite attitude is one of strong belief, trust, or devotion. The word "devotee" denotes a person who is very devoted to a cause, deity, or belief system, often with deep faith. The other options mostly describe different forms of disbelief or opposition to conventional religion, such as "atheist" and "heretic", and therefore cannot be antonyms of "skeptic".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Define "skeptic" as a person who habitually doubts or questions accepted opinions, especially religious or metaphysical claims.Step 2: Look for a word that represents strong belief or unquestioning faith.Step 3: Recognise that "devotee" means a person who is very devoted to someone or something, often religious.Step 4: Examine the other options: "profaner", "heretic", "atheist", and "iconoclast" all have negative or questioning attitudes toward religion or sacred matters.Step 5: Conclude that "devotee" is the only word that stands on the opposite side of doubt and scepticism.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider the contrast in real life: on one side, a religious skeptic questions whether a certain deity exists; on the other side, a devotee has firm faith and performs rituals regularly. These two attitudes clearly oppose each other. "Atheist" and "skeptic" are actually similar in that both may reject or question belief in God, so they cannot be opposites. Likewise, a "heretic" or "iconoclast" is someone who challenges traditional beliefs, just like skeptics do.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• profaner: A person who treats sacred things with disrespect; this is not the opposite of doubt, but rather irreverence.
• heretic: Someone who holds beliefs that differ from established religious doctrines; similar in spirit to a skeptic, not opposite.
• atheist: A person who does not believe in God at all; clearly closer to skepticism than to devotion.
• iconoclast: Someone who attacks or criticises cherished beliefs or institutions; again aligned more with doubt and challenge.

Common Pitfalls:
Students may confuse "skeptic" with "believer" or think that any word associated with religion must be an antonym. However, many religious words describe people who oppose traditional beliefs rather than support them. Always carefully distinguish between those who doubt (skeptics, atheists, heretics, iconoclasts) and those who firmly believe (devotees, believers, worshippers).

Final Answer:
The antonym of "skeptic" is devotee.