Definitions of Words Used in the Evolution Issue

I find that there are a variety of words and terms used in the discussion of evolution that can be confusing and easily misunderstood. An example is these three: evolution, theory of evolution and evolutionism. None are the same and they should not be used interchangeably. Another stickler is the science definitions of 'theory' and 'law'.

The definitions provided in the Sidebar are not exhaustive but should help to keep conversation on level ground.