Sermonize: meaning, definitions and examples

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sermonize

[ˈsɜːr.mə.naɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

religious speech

To deliver a sermon or religious speech, typically in a formal or authoritative manner. Sermonizing often involves imparting moral or spiritual lessons to an audience.

Synonyms

discourse, lecture, preach.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sermonize	This word is usually used when someone is giving a talk on moral or religious topics. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the speaker is being overly moralistic or patronizing. He tends to sermonize about the dangers of social media. Please stop sermonizing and give us some practical advice.
preach	Preach is often associated with religious contexts where a person is delivering a sermon or speaking about their faith. It can also be used negatively to imply that someone is giving unwanted advice in a moralistic manner. The minister preached about forgiveness during the Sunday service. He's always preaching about the importance of healthy eating, even when no one asks.
lecture	Lecture is commonly used in educational settings when a teacher or professor is giving an informative speech to students. It can also carry a negative tone if someone is speaking to another in a condescending way. The biology lecture covered various aspects of human anatomy. Stop lecturing me about my responsibilities; I know what I need to do.
discourse	Discourse is used for formal and serious speeches or writing on a particular topic. It can be used in both academic and journalistic contexts. The professor's discourse on Renaissance art was fascinating. Her discourse on climate change was thorough and well-researched.

Examples of usage

He sermonized on the importance of forgiveness.
The preacher sermonized about the power of love and compassion.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

moralizing

To lecture or speak in a pompous, moralizing manner, often with an air of superiority. Sermonizing in this context implies a condescending or self-righteous tone.

Synonyms

condescend, moralize, patronize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
sermonize	Sermonize, as already mentioned, highlights giving extended, sermon-like speeches often coming across as preachy. He tends to sermonize during family gatherings, lecturing everyone about their lifestyle choices.
moralize	Use 'moralize' when someone attempts to advise or persuade others on what is right or wrong in an annoying or unwanted way. Parents should guide their children but try not to constantly moralize about every little mistake.
condescend	Condescend is appropriate when someone talks down to others, acting as if they are superior in a way that can be demeaning or insulting. She was offended when her boss condescended to her, explaining basic concepts as if she were a child.
patronize	Patronize is used when someone treats others as if they are less capable or knowledgeable, usually with an air of false kindness or superiority. She hated how her colleagues would patronize her, always speaking slowly and simply as if she couldn’t understand.

Examples of usage

My aunt always sermonizes about the proper way to raise children.
Don't sermonize to me about the dangers of fast food; I already know.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term originates from the Latin word 'sermonem', which means 'discourse' or 'speech'.
It evolved into the Old French 'sermon' before being adopted into English in the late Middle Ages.
Originally, the word referred primarily to religious talks delivered in church.

Cultural Impact

Sermons have been used throughout history as a means of moral persuasion, influencing social values and laws.
In the 19th century, famous figures like Frederick Douglass delivered impactful sermons advocating for abolition and civil rights.
Today, sermonizing can also be seen in social media, where influencers often promote lifestyle changes and motivations.

Psychology

Research suggests that sermonizing can reinforce group identity and solidarity among listeners.
Active listening during a sermon can lead to increased feelings of community and belonging.
The emotional delivery in sermons can impact listeners' attitudes and behaviors significantly.

Literature

Sermonies appear in various literary works; for example, Jonathan Edwards's 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God' is a famous sermon that left a lasting impression on American literature.
In many novels, characters use sermonizing to persuade others, illustrating its rhetorical power.
The structure of a sermon often mirrors narrative techniques, creating tension and resolution within its moral lessons.

Religion

Sermons are central to many religious practices, often serving as the primary means of communication between clergy and congregants.
In Christianity, sermons are typically delivered during worship services, emphasizing scripture and moral teaching.
Different religions have their own styles and forms of sermonizing, reflecting cultural and doctrinal variations.

Translations

Translations of the word "sermonize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pregação

🇮🇳 उपदेश देना

🇩🇪 predigen

🇮🇩 berkhotbah

🇺🇦 проповідувати

🇵🇱 głosić kazania

🇯🇵 説教する (sekkyou suru)

🇫🇷 prêcher

🇪🇸 predicar

🇹🇷 vaaz vermek

🇰🇷 설교하다 (seolgyeohada)

🇸🇦 يعظ (yaz)

🇨🇿 kázat

🇸🇰 kazať

🇨🇳 布道 (bùdào)

🇸🇮 pridigati

🇮🇸 að prédika

🇰🇿 уағыз айту

🇬🇪 ქადაგება (k'adageba)

🇦🇿 vəza vermək

🇲🇽 predicar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,308, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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41305 flapjack
41306 ukelele
41307 meliorative
41308 sermonize
41309 egomania
41310 flub
41311 fattier
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