sermon

noun

ser·​mon ˈsər-mən 

1

: a religious discourse delivered in public usually by a member of the clergy as a part of a worship service

2

: a speech on conduct or duty

sermonic

ˌsər-ˈmä-nik 

adjective

Synonyms

• homily

Examples of sermon in a Sentence

He preached a sermon on the importance of kindness.

Dad gave me a sermon yesterday about doing my homework.

Recent Examples on the Web

In a shocking moment during his Sunday sermon on Nov. 24, which was captured on video, Jakes could be seen lowering his microphone and shaking in his seat before people around him rushed to his aid. —Julia Reinstein, ABC News, 1 Dec. 2024

The megachurch celebrity pastor was seen to pause his sermon and shake as people approached him on stage in footage posted to social media. —James Powel, USA TODAY, 26 Nov. 2024

In a clip circulating online from the sermon, the 67-year-old pauses mid-speech and appears to shake and sit still before dropping the microphone. Dozens speed to his aid as the congregation stands, with some praying out loud or shouting. —Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 25 Nov. 2024

In a viral video, Jakes, while delivering his hourlong sermon at the Potter’s House in Dallas, was seen lowering his microphone and trembling before being assisted by those around him. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French sermun, from Medieval Latin sermon-, sermo, from Latin, speech, conversation, from serere to link together — more at series

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sermon

noun

ser·​mon ˈsər-mən 

1

: a public speech usually by a priest, minister, or rabbi for the purpose of giving religious instruction

2

: a speech on conduct or duty