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

The opposition’s mainstream leaders still mouth the catechism that change should come by Venezuelan hands, but more are openly courting external pressure to tilt the balance.

From Salon

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.

From Salon

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

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