CATECHISM, noun 1. A form of instruction by means of questions and answers, particularly in the principles of religion. 2. An elementary book containing a summary of principles in any science or art, but appropriately in religion, reduced to the form of questions and answers, and sometimes with notes, explanations, and references to authorities.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI