catechism
Americannoun
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Ecclesiastical.
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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.
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the contents of such a book.
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a similar book of instruction in other subjects.
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a series of formal questions put, as to political candidates, to bring out their views.
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catechetical instruction.
noun
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instruction by a series of questions and answers, esp a book containing such instruction on the religious doctrine of a Christian Church
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rigorous and persistent questioning, as in a test or interview
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of catechism
1495–1505; < Late Latin catēchismus apparently equivalent to catēch ( izāre ) to catechize + -ismus -ism
Explanation
A catechism is a series of questions and answers. Catholic children study a catechism as part of their religious education; it outlines the principal tenets of their faith. If you're looking to understand the Christian faith, the catechism is a good place to begin. It outlines people's relationship to God, man's need for God, and the importance of the scriptures and the principles of the faith. It is meant to be digested over time, though children used to commit portions of it to memory.
Vocabulary lists containing catechism
"Seventh Grade" by Gary Soto
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Bless Me, Ultima
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that Mary’s consent—“Let it be done.”—was a free, active and essential act of faith that allowed the Incarnation to occur.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 18, 2026
He argues the Catechism is clear that immigrants should keep to all laws, including those about whether they should be in the country.
From BBC • Dec. 23, 2025
Moreover, six years ago, the Pope updated the Catechism of the Catholic Church’s teaching on the death penalty.
From Salon • Dec. 1, 2024
Francis quoted the Catechism of the Catholic Church in saying gay people must be welcomed and respected, and should not be marginalized or discriminated against.
From Washington Times • Jan. 25, 2023
“Now we will repeat the first part of the Catechism, and then Mistress Tyler will tell you a story.”
From "The Witch of Blackbird Pond" by Elizabeth George Speare
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
