the shorter catechism

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Catechism \Cat"e*chism\ (-k[i^]z'm), n. [L. catechismus, fr. Gr.
   See {Catechise}.]
   1. A form of instruction by means of questions and answers.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. A book containing a summary of principles, especially of
      religious doctrine, reduced to the form of questions and
      answers.
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            The Jews, even till this day, have their catechisms.
                                                  --Hooker.
      [1913 Webster]

   {The Larger Catechism}, {The Shorter Catechism}. See
      {Westminster Assembly}, under {Assembly}.
      [1913 Webster]