an elementary book containing a summary of the principles of the Christian religion, esp. as maintained by a particular church, in the form of questions and answers.
b.
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.
Origin: 1495–1505; < LL catēchismus appar. equiv. to catēch(izāre) to catechize+ -ismus-ism
A book giving a brief summary of the basic principles of Christianity in question-and-answer form.
A manual giving basic instruction in a subject, usually by rote or repetition.
A body of fundamental principles or beliefs, especially when accepted uncritically: "the core of the catechism of the antinuclear left, the notion that the threat to peace is technological, not political"(George F. Will).
A close questioning or examination, as of a political figure.
[French catechisme, from Old French, from Late Latin catēchismus, from Late Greek katēkhismos, from katēkhizein, to teach by word of mouth; see catechize.]
[kat-i-kiz-uh
m] 