Main Entry: doc·trine

Pronunciation: \ˈdäk-trən\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin doctrina, from doctor

Date: 14th century

1 archaic : teaching, instruction
2 a : something that is taught b : a principle or position or the body of principles in a branch of knowledge or system of belief : dogma c : a principle of law established through past decisions d : a statement of fundamental government policy especially in international relations e : a military principle or set of strategies