Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
Athanasian \Ath`a*na"sian\ (?; 277), a.
Of or pertaining to Athanasius, bishop of Alexandria in the
4th century.
{Athanasian creed}, a formulary, confession, or exposition of
faith, formerly supposed to have been drawn up by
Athanasius; but this opinion is now rejected, and the
composition is ascribed by some to Hilary, bishop of Arles
(5th century). It is a summary of what was called the
orthodox faith.
Creed \Creed\ (kr[=e]d), n. [OE. credo, crede, AS. creda, fr. L.
credo I believe, at the beginning of the Apostles' creed, fr.
credere to believe; akin to OIr. cretim I believe, and Skr.
[,c]raddadh[=a]mi; [,c]rat trust + dh[=a] to put. See {Do},
v. t., and cf. {Credo}, {Grant}.]
1. A definite summary of what is believed; esp., a summary of
the articles of Christian faith; a confession of faith for
public use; esp., one which is brief and comprehensive.
In the Protestant system the creed is not
co["o]rdinate with, but always subordinate to, the
Bible. --Schaff-Herzog
Encyc.
2. Any summary of principles or opinions professed or adhered
to.
I love him not, nor fear him; there's my creed.
--Shak.
{Apostles' creed}, {Athanasian creed}, {Nicene creed}. See
under {Apostle}, {Athanasian}, {Nicene}.
Source : WordNet®
Athanasian Creed
n : a Christian profession of faith