Dōc'trīne, n.

n. [Lat. doctrina, from doctor; Fr. doctrine; Pr. & Sp. doctrina, Pg. doutrina, It. dottrina. See DOCTOR.] 1. The act of teaching; instruction; discipline. He taught them many things by parables, and said unto them in his doctrine. Mark iv. 2. Whom shall he make to understand doctrine? Is. xxviii. 9.

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; a theological tenet; dogma. “Articles of faith and doctrine.” Hooker. “The doctrine of gravitation.” Watts.
3. Learning; erudition; acquired knowledge.

Syn.—Precept; tenet; principle; maxim.—DOCTRINE, PRECEPT. Doctrine denotes whatever is recommended as a speculative truth to the belief of others. Precept is a rule laid 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. Experience, slow preceptress, teaching oft The way to glory by miscarriage foul, Must prompt him. Cowper.