What does sermon mean?
A sermon is a religious talk delivered by a member of the clergy, especially during a worship service, and commonly intended to explain a biblical or moral lesson. In figurative use, the word refers to a long, earnest, or repetitive lecture about conduct, often with a mildly admonitory tone. The phrase “preach a sermon” is common, while “deliver a sermon” can sound more formal or neutral. Although sermons are associated with Christianity and other religious traditions, the word can also describe comparable discourses in several faiths. The metaphorical sense is often playful or disapproving, as when someone says they received a sermon about tidiness. Its unusual history lies in the fact that the word once referred broadly to formal discourse before becoming especially associated with religious instruction.
A religious discourse or talk given by a member of the clergy, especially during a worship service, and intended to teach, encourage, or warn listeners.
"The sermon focused on the importance of compassion."
This is the word's principal modern sense.
A long or earnest moral lecture or lecture-like talk.
"My brother gave me a sermon after I forgot his birthday."
Figurative and often slightly humorous or disapproving.
To preach or deliver a sermon, especially as a member of the clergy.
"The minister sermonized to the congregation about forgiveness."
Less common than the noun and often formal.
The standard plural form is “sermons,” referring to individual religious talks or, figuratively, moral lectures.
"The archive contains sermons from the church's early years."
The word sermon originally meant any serious discourse, before it became closely associated with religious preaching.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sermon come from?
The word comes through Old French sermon from Latin sermo, meaning “discourse,” “talk,” or “speech.” Latin also used the term for a formal religious or philosophical discourse. English adopted it in the Middle Ages for religious instruction, and the related forms sermonize and sermonary reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How sermon is actually used
In its extended sense, “sermon” can sound informal, mildly critical, or humorous when someone accuses another person of lecturing. The religious sense is the dominant and established usage.
Easily confused with sermon
A sermon is a religious discourse, whereas a seminar is a small instructional meeting or discussion group.