Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Sermonized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⛪
Add to dictionary

sermonized

[ˈsɜːrmənaɪzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious context

To sermonize means to deliver a sermon or religious discourse, typically in a formal setting. It often involves preaching to an audience about moral, ethical, or spiritual topics. The act of sermonizing can be both an expression of one's beliefs and a means to persuade others to adopt similar views. It is commonly associated with religious leaders and the practice of imparting teachings derived from holy texts.

Synonyms

advocate, deliver a sermon, lecture, preach.

Examples of usage

  • The pastor sermonized about love and compassion.
  • She often sermonized on the importance of community service.
  • During the service, he sermonized on forgiveness.
  • He was known to sermonize passionately at youth gatherings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religion

  • Sermons have been a central part of Christian worship since its beginnings, often reflecting the values of the community.
  • In many faiths, sermons are seen as a way to convey divine messages to followers, guiding their moral and ethical lives.
  • The length and style of sermons can vary greatly—some are formal and structured, while others are interactive and improvisational.

Cultural Impact

  • In various cultures, the practice of sermonizing has evolved, influencing literature, music, and even political speeches.
  • Famous public figures and leaders have incorporated sermon-like rhetoric into their speeches to inspire and persuade audiences.
  • Many social movements have utilized the structure of sermons to communicate messages of justice and change, demonstrating their persuasive power.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the delivery of a sermon can significantly impact audience engagement and retention of the message.
  • Emotional storytelling, often used in sermons, can provoke deeper connections and enhance recall of the preached message.
  • The communal aspect of listening to a sermon can foster a sense of belonging and shared identity among attendees.

Origin of 'sermonized'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sermo,' meaning 'speech' or 'discourse.'
  • It has evolved since the Middle English word 'sermone,' which referred to a discourse intended to inspire and educate.
  • The modern usage has expanded beyond religious contexts to include any authoritative or moralistic talk.

The word 'sermonize' derives from the Middle English term 'sermonisen', which is based on the Latin word 'sermo', meaning 'discourse' or 'conversation'. This reflects the early use of sermons as a form of public oratory intended to convey religious teachings to the congregation. The evolution of the term is linked to the increasing formalization of religious practices during the Middle Ages, where sermons became a central part of worship services. Over time, 'sermonize' evolved to encompass not just religious discourses but any moralistic or authoritative speech intended to instruct others. It emphasizes the role of the speaker as a moral guide or teacher, distinguishing it from mere storytelling.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,981, 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.