What does homiletical mean?
Homiletical is an adjective relating to a homily, a sermon, or the broader discipline of homiletics, the art and practice of preaching. It may characterize language that is didactic, explanatory, and intended to instruct an audience in moral or religious principles. The word appears in discussions of sermon construction, religious rhetoric, and the historical development of Christian preaching, as well as in literary criticism where a writer’s style resembles that of a sermon. Because it is uncommon outside specialized writing, homiletical generally carries a formal, scholarly tone and can sometimes suggest that a text is more explicitly moralizing than the neutral term “sermonic.” Its usefulness lies in identifying the distinctive rhetorical character of preaching: the combination of spiritual interpretation, direct address, and instruction. In modern discussion, the word most often appears in phrases such as “homiletical style” or “homiletical rhetoric.”
adjectiveOf or relating to homilies, preaching, or the art of constructing sermons. Characterized by the didactic or moralizing style associated with religious instruction.
- Relating to homilies, sermons, or the art of preaching.
- Resembling a homily, especially in its didactic, instructional, or moralizing character.
"The minister adopted a homiletical style that made the ancient text accessible to a broad audience."
"Her homiletical commentary emphasized the practical lessons of the parable."
"The essay was written in a distinctly homiletical style, repeatedly urging readers to examine their conduct."
Homiletical leads back to the Greek idea of homilos, “of the same kind,” and ultimately to assemblies in which people spoke to one another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does homiletical come from?
Homiletical was formed in English from homiletic, with the additional suffix -al. Both homiletic and homily ultimately draw on Greek homiletikos, associated with public assembly or discourse, while homily comes through Latin from Greek homilia, “assembly” or “conversation,” itself related to homilos, “of the same kind.” These shared roots connect the word with the original practice of gathering for communal speech and instruction.
Related word forms
How homiletical is actually used
This is a specialized and relatively uncommon word found chiefly in literary, religious, and rhetorical contexts. It can suggest the instructive or moralizing character of preaching.
Easily confused with homiletical
Both words relate to preaching, but “homiletical” is the adjective formed from “homiletics,” whereas “homiletic” more directly denotes the branch or practice of homiletics.
A homily is a sermon or religious discourse; homiletical describes qualities associated with sermons or the practice of preaching.