Christian Science

American  

noun

1. a system of religious teaching, founded in 1866 by Mary Baker Eddy and based on the Scriptures, the most notable application of which is the practice of spiritual healing.

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Christian Science British  

noun

1. the religious system and teaching of the Church of Christ, Scientist. It was founded by Mary Baker Eddy (1866) and emphasizes spiritual healing and the unreality of matter

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Christian Science Cultural  

1. A religion based on the teachings of Jesus. It was founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the nineteenth century. Christian Scientists believe that sickness and sin are not ordained by God and can be overcome by prayer and understanding.

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Christian Scientists are known for refusing to accept medicine or treatment by doctors. However, a Christian Scientist's decision to dispense with medical treatment is left to the individual believer and is not dictated by church policy.

Other Word Forms

• Christian Scientist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of Christian Science

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

“Instead of improving memory,” the Christian Science Monitor notes, “hypnosis may only manipulate it.”

From Slate • Feb. 13, 2026

As she was dying in 1977, after a long decline from what was likely untreated cancer, Crawford told a Christian Science practitioner that she was ready to go.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025

A 1953 Los Angeles Times article called fruitcake a "holiday must," and in 1958, the Christian Science Monitor asked, "What Could Be a Better Gift Than Fruitcake?"

From Salon • Dec. 17, 2024

Taylor was born into a Christian Science home and found his faith strengthened by a healing.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 21, 2024

George Timpson of the Christian Science Monitor called it “brilliant.”

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown