1. Opinion or doctrine contrary to (usu. Catholic) church dogma. [Cases: Religious Societies 28.]
2. Hist. In England, an offense against religion, consisting not in totally denying Christianity, but in publicly denying some of its essential doctrines; an opinion on divine subjects devised solely by human reason, openly taught, and obstinately maintained. • This offense is now subject only to ecclesiastical correction and is no longer punishable by the secular law.
