— catechismal , adj.
/kat"i kiz'euhm/ , n.
1. Eccles.
a. 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.
[ 1495-1505; catechismus appar. equiv. to catech ( izare ) to CATECHIZE + -ismus -ISM ]