catechism

[kat-i-kiz-uhm]

noun

1. Ecclesiastical.

   1. an elementary book containing a summary of the principles of the Christian religion, especially as maintained by a particular church, in the form of questions and answers.

   2. the contents of such a book.

2. a similar book of instruction in other subjects.

3. a series of formal questions put, as to political candidates, to bring out their views.

4. catechetical instruction.

catechism

/ ˈkætɪˌkɪzəm /

noun

1. instruction by a series of questions and answers, esp a book containing such instruction on the religious doctrine of a Christian Church

2. rigorous and persistent questioning, as in a test or interview

Other Word Forms

• catechismal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of catechism¹

1495–1505; < Late Latin catēchismus apparently equivalent to catēch ( izāre ) to catechize + -ismus -ism

Word History and Origins

Origin of catechism¹

C16: from Late Latin catēchismus, ultimately from Greek katēkhizein to _catechize

Example Sentences

Vance affirms, "I’m pro-life," while ignoring that the catechism of the religion he picked out for himself holds that the death penalty is inadmissible.

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Since the 1970s, obsessive opposition to abortion has been a catechism among conservatives.

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But there’s an attitude, a worldview and a fundamental set of principles that guide the tech industry and its progeny, like a secular catechism.

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I’ve just spent a week tramping across Venice, a city of more than 250 churches, and where did I encounter the most doctrinaire catechism?

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For the last several weeks he has occasionally asked an aide to read aloud his speeches and catechism lessons to spare him the effort.

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