Definition of atheist

1771 edition of the Encyclopaedia Brittanica Atheist

A person who does not believe in the existence of a Deity. Many people, both ancient and modern, have pretended to atheism, or have been reckoned atheists by the world; but it is justly questioned whether man seriously adopted such a principle. Those pretensions, therefore, must be founded on pride or affectation.

Under law: Tit. 33 "Of crimes" (incorrectly numbered Tit. 26)

7. Certain crimes are committed more immediately against God himself; others, against the state; and a third kind against certain persons. The chief crime in the first class, cognizable by temporal courts, is blasphemy, under which may be included atheism. This crime consists in denying or vilifying the Deity, by speech or writing. All who curse God or any of the persons of the blessed Trinity, are to suffer death, even for a single act; and those who deny him (sic), if they persist in their denial. The denial of a providence, or of the authority of the holy Scriptures, is punishable capitally for the third offence.