Doctrine
[DAHK-trən]
Part of speech: noun
Origin: Latin, 14th century
1.
A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a Church, political party, or other group.
2.
A stated principle of government policy, mainly in foreign or military affairs.
Examples of Doctrine in a sentence
"The older I grow, the more I distrust the familiar doctrine that age brings wisdom.' ― H.L. Mencken"
"Presidents are often remembered for certain policies or actions, which can be called their doctrine."
About Doctrine
While today you go to the doctor for your medical concerns, in the original Latin, "doctor" meant teacher. Drawing from that, "doctrina" meant teaching. As the word moved from Old French into Middle English, "doctrine" turned into a set of beliefs stated by a church or political party.
Did you Know?
The Monroe Doctrine, announced by President Monroe during his 1823 address to Congress, was a cornerstone of American foreign policy for many decades. The basic gist of it was that the United States would not interfere with European affairs, nor accept European intervention in the Americas.
