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.

---

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

---

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 • May 23, 2025

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 • Mar. 16, 2025

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 • Apr. 24, 2024

“Now even young parents are hard to engage. They bring kids to the doorway for catechism, but don’t cross it for Mass.”

From Seattle Times • Oct. 4, 2023

Older boys in the fifth class have the thick Confirmation catechism with the red cover and that costs sixpence.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt