ˈ ̷ ̷əˌkīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Usage: see -ize
Etymology: Late Latin catechizare, from Greek katēchein to teach, instruct in the elements of religion (from kata- cata- + -ēchein to sound, from ēchē sound) + Late Latin -izare -ize — more at echo
transitive verb
1. : to instruct systematically especially by asking questions, receiving answers, and offering explanations and corrections ; specifically : to give religious instruction in such a manner
he preached informally in homes and hospitals, catechized children — K.S.Latourette
2. : to question systematically or searchingly in order to determine the extent of one's knowledge or the probity of opinions or conduct or to call forth inconsistent or self-condemning answers
he catechized Randall to the last detail about every toy that John was to receive — Marcia Davenport
intransitive verb
: to give oral instruction especially in religion
preach and catechize — J.C.Brauer
Synonyms: see ask