noun

doctrine

DOK-trihn

noun

A set of beliefs or principles held and taught by a religion, philosophy, or organization.

"The church's doctrine has changed little over the centuries."

"Communist doctrine shaped policy across the region."

A stated policy guiding a country's official conduct, especially in foreign affairs.

"The president outlined a new foreign policy doctrine."

How to Use Doctrine

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA formal set of teachings or a guiding policy, especially in religion, ideology, or government.

Common pairings

religious doctrine foreign policy doctrine official doctrine

doctrines plural

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The church's _____ has changed little over the centuries.

From Latin doctrina, "teaching," from docere, "to teach" — the same root as "doctor."

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