[ 'sɪz(ə)m , 'skɪz(ə)m ]
■ noun
1》 a division between strongly opposed parties, caused by differences in opinion or belief.
2》 the formal separation of a Church into two Churches or the secession of a group owing to doctrinal and other differences.
Origin
ME: from OFr. scisme , via eccles. L. from Gk skhisma 'cleft', from skhizein 'to split'.