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schism definition

schism (siz′əm, skiz′-)

noun

  1. a split or division in an organized group or society, esp. a church, as the result of difference of opinion, of doctrine, etc.
  2. the act of causing or trying to cause a split or division in a church
  3. any of the sects, parties, etc. formed by such a split

Etymology: ME scisme < OFr cisme < LL(Ec) schisma < Gr < schizein, to cleave, cut: see schizo-

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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