hearsay, heresy

Information or evidence that is obtained through a secondary or indirect source: The witness was told that he could not use hearsay in court.

heresy (HER i see) ( (HER i see) ( noun

1. Dogma or doctrine held by an individual or a group of individuals which is perceived as unacceptable or different to that of another religious group: The elderly priest considered the sermons, preached in the church across the street, as heresy.

2. An opinion or belief that is held contrary to generally accepted standards or practices: In a household of people who love cats, it is almost heresy to admit to being fond of dogs.