Schĭsm, n.

(sĭzm), n. [Lat. schisma, Gr. σχίσμα, from σχίζειν, to split; Fr. schisme, O. Fr. cisme, Pr. scisma, sisma, Sp. cisma, Pg. schisma, cisma, It. scisma, cisma.] Division or separation; specifically, permanent division or separation in the Christian church, occasioned by diversity of opinions, or any other reason; breach of unity among people of the same religious faith; the offense of seeking to produce division in a church without justifiable cause.

Set bounds to our passions by reason, to our errors by truth, and to our schisms by charity. K. Charles.