Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- Ecclesiastical.
- 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.
- the contents of such a book.
- a similar book of instruction in other subjects.
- a series of formal questions put, as to political candidates, to bring out their views.
- catechetical instruction.
noun
- instruction by a series of questions and answers, esp a book containing such instruction on the religious doctrine of a Christian Church
- rigorous and persistent questioning, as in a test or interview
c.1500, “instruction in Christian principles,” also “elementary question-and-answer book of religious instruction,” from French catéchisme (14c.) and directly from Church Latin catechismus “book of instruction,” from Greek katekhismos, from katekhizein “to teach orally” (see catechize). Related: Catechismal.