Dictionary entry

αἵρεσις

G. Abbott-Smith's A Manual Greek Lexicon of the New Testament

αἵρεσις, -εως, ἡ

(< αἱρέω, -ομαι), [in LXX for נְדָבָה,]

1. capture.

2. choosing, choice (v. MM, VGT, s.v.).

3. that which is chosen, hence, opinion; esp. a peculiar opinion, heresy: I Co 11:19, Ga 5:20, II Pe 2:1, R, txt.

4. In late writers (MM, VGT), of a set of persons professing particular principles or opinions, a school, sect, party, faction: Ac 5:1715:524:5, 1426:528:22, I Co 11:19, Ga 5:20, II Pe 2:1, R, mg. (Cremer, 614).†