schism

(skĭzˈəm, sĭzˈ-)

noun

1. A separation or division into factions.
2. a. A formal breach of union within a Christian church.
   b. The offense of attempting to produce such a breach.
3. Disunion; discord.

Usage Note: The word schism, which was originally spelled scisme in English, is traditionally pronounced (sĭzˈəm). However, in the 16th century the word was respelled with an initial sch in order to conform to its Latin and Greek forms. From this spelling arose the pronunciation (skĭzˈəm). Long regarded as incorrect, it became so common in both British and American English that it gained acceptability as a standard variant. Evidence indicates, however, that it is now the preferred pronunciation, at least in American English. In a recent survey 61 percent of the Usage Panel indicated that they use (skĭzˈəm), while 31 percent said they use (sĭzˈəm). A smaller number, 8 percent, preferred a third pronunciation, (shĭzˈəm).