Definition of "catechism" [cat•e•chism]

• A book giving a brief summary of the basic principles of Christianity in question-and-answer form. (noun)
• A manual giving basic instruction in a subject, usually by rote or repetition. (noun)
• 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). (noun)
• A close questioning or examination, as of a political figure. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Then we had what we called the catechism -- the chief end of man."
• "The bishops might defend themselves on the grounds that when it comes to articles of faith the catechism is not a Chinese menu."
• "Their catechism is very similar to RCs but marriage is an option for those not wanting to climb the organised theological career ladder."