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
[kat-i-kiz-uh
m] 