catechism

American  

[kat-i-kiz-uhm] / ˈkæt ɪˌkɪz əm /

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.

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catechism British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• catechismal adjective

Etymology

Origin of catechism

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

Example Sentences

He may have gone to catechism class, but he hasn't done his homework.

From Salon

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.

From Los Angeles Times

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?

From New York Times

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

From Seattle Times

But he had an aide read his catechism lesson, as he has done for the past several days.

From Seattle Times