doctrine Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school
philosophical system; philosophy; school of thought; ism.

F. doctrine, L. doctrina, fr. doctor. See Doctor.

Teaching; instruction.
He taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine, Hearken. Mark iv. 2.
That which is taught; what is held, put forth as true, and supported by a teacher, a school, or a sect; a principle or position, or the body of principles, in any branch of knowledge; any tenet or dogma; a principle of faith; as, the doctrine of atoms; the doctrine of chances. "The doctrine of gravitation." I. Watts.
Articles of faith and doctrine. Hooker.
Syn. -- Precept; tenet; principle; maxim; dogma. -- Doctrine, Precept. Doctrine denotes whatever is recommended as a speculative truth to the belief of others. Precept is a rule down to be obeyed. Doctrine supposes a teacher; precept supposes a superior, with a right to command. The doctrines of the Bible; the precepts of our holy religion.
Unpracticed he to fawn or seek for power By doctrines fashioned to the varying hour. Goldsmith.