catechize

verb

cat·​e·​chize ˈka-tə-ˌkīz 

catechized; catechizing

transitive verb

1

: to instruct systematically especially by questions, answers, and explanations and corrections

specifically : to give religious instruction in such a manner

2

: to question systematically or searchingly

catechization

ˌka-ti-kə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

catechizer

ˈka-tə-ˌkī-zər 

noun

Synonyms

• ask
• grill
• inquire (of)
• interrogate
• query
• question
• quiz

Examples of catechize in a Sentence

her roommates catechized her about every detail of her first day at her new job

applicants are rigorously catechized by the seminary's rector regarding their motives for joining the priesthood

Recent Examples on the Web

Priests could not catechize children, bring the sacraments to the sick, or do pastoral work outside the local churchyard. —George Weigel, WSJ, 17 Mar. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin catechizare, from Greek katēchein to teach, literally, to din into, from kata- cata- + ēchein to resound, from ēchē sound — more at echo

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

catechize

verb

cat·​e·​chize ˈkat-ə-ˌkīz 

catechized; catechizing

: to instruct (as on religion) by means of questions, answers, and explanations and corrections