- An opinion held in opposition to the established or
commonly received doctrine, and tending to promote a division or party,
as in politics, literature, philosophy, etc.; -- usually, but not
necessarily, said in reproach. - Religious opinion opposed to the authorized doctrinal
standards of any particular church, especially when tending to promote
schism or separation; lack of orthodox or sound belief; rejection of,
or erroneous belief in regard to, some fundamental religious doctrine
or truth; heterodoxy. - An offense against Christianity, consisting in a denial of
some essential doctrine, which denial is publicly avowed, and
obstinately maintained.