\Skep"ti*cism\, n. [Cf. F. scepticisme.] [Written
also {scepticism}.]
1. An undecided, inquiring state of mind; doubt; uncertainty.
         That momentary amazement, and irresolution, and
         confusion, which is the result of skepticism.
                                               --Hune.
2. (Metaph.) The doctrine that no fact or principle can be
   certainly known; the tenet that all knowledge is
   uncertain; Pyrrohonism; universal doubt; the position that
   no fact or truth, however worthy of confidence, can be
   established on philosophical grounds; critical
   investigation or inquiry, as opposed to the positive
   assumption or assertion of certain principles.
3. (Theol.) A doubting of the truth of revelation, or a
   denial of the divine origin of the Christian religion, or
   of the being, perfections, or truth of God.
         Let no . . . secret skepticism lead any one to doubt
         whether this blessed prospect will be realized. --S.
                                               Miller.