Catechize: meaning, definitions and examples

📚
Add to dictionary

catechize

 

[ ˈkætəˌkaɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

religious instruction

To catechize means to teach or instruct in the principles of a religion, typically by means of a question-and-answer format. This practice is especially common in Christian traditions as a way to prepare individuals for baptism or confirmation.

Synonyms

educate, instruct, teach

Examples of usage

  • The priest will catechize the children before their first communion.
  • Many parents choose to catechize their children at home.
  • The church offers classes to catechize new members.

Translations

Translations of the word "catechize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 catequizar

🇮🇳 कैटेचिज़

🇩🇪 katechisieren

🇮🇩 mengkatekisasi

🇺🇦 катехізувати

🇵🇱 katechizować

🇯🇵 カテキズムする

🇫🇷 catéchiser

🇪🇸 catequizar

🇹🇷 kateşiz etmek

🇰🇷 가르치다

🇸🇦 توجيه التعليم الديني

🇨🇿 katechizovat

🇸🇰 katechizovať

🇨🇳 教义讲解

🇸🇮 katehizirati

🇮🇸 katekísera

🇰🇿 катехизировать

🇬🇪 კატეხიზაცია

🇦🇿 katexizm

🇲🇽 catequizar

Word origin

The word 'catechize' originates from the Greek word 'katēkhizō', which means 'to teach orally' or 'to instruct'. This term is derived from 'kata-', meaning 'down', and 'ēkhō', meaning 'to sound'. The concept of catechism has roots in early Christianity, where it was essential for educating converts about the faith. Over time, catechism developed as a formalized process within the church, especially during the Reformation when the need for structured religious education became apparent. The practice emphasizes an oral tradition, which aligns with the origins of the term, reflecting a historical commitment to teaching through questions and answers. As Christianity spread, catechism became a central practice in a variety of denominations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the faith through active engagement.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,055, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.