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Sermonizing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sermonizing

[ˈsɜːmənaɪzɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a religious context

To deliver a sermon; to preach a moral or religious lesson.

Synonyms

exhort, lecture, preach.

Examples of usage

  • He spent the entire afternoon sermonizing about the importance of forgiveness.
  • The priest was sermonizing on the topic of compassion and empathy.
Context #2 | Verb

in a non-religious context

To lecture someone in a tedious or pompous way.

Synonyms

lecture, moralize, preach.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sermonizing

This word is often used when someone gives a long and tedious speech about morals or behaviors, usually in a way that feels condescending.

  • His constant sermonizing about the dangers of modern technology bored everyone at the dinner party
lecture

This word is typically used when referring to an educational or informative speech given by a teacher or expert. It can also be used negatively to describe a long reprimand or scolding.

  • The professor's lecture on quantum physics was insightful
  • She gave her son a stern lecture about the importance of doing his homework
moralize

This term is used when someone comments on issues of right and wrong, often in a superior or judgmental way.

  • He tended to moralize about other people's choices, which made him unpopular among his friends
preach

Commonly used in religious contexts to describe delivering a sermon, it can also mean to advocate or promote a particular principle or course of action energetically.

  • The pastor preached about the importance of forgiveness
  • She is always preaching the benefits of a healthy diet

Examples of usage

  • Stop sermonizing and just get to the point!
  • She was tired of her boss sermonizing about punctuality.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

History

  • The practice of delivering sermons dates back to ancient religions, including Judaism and early Christianity, emphasizing moral instruction.
  • Prominent figures, like Martin Luther King Jr., used sermonizing techniques to inspire and mobilize movements for civil rights.
  • In medieval times, sermonizing was a key way to educate the masses, as many people were illiterate and depended on oral teaching.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, sermonizing appears in festivals, where leaders charge communities to uphold values, like unity and peace.
  • Modern media often employs sermonizing through motivational speeches or public service announcements to engage audiences.
  • Political leaders sometimes use sermonizing to rally support for causes, blending moral instruction with civic responsibility.

Psychology

  • Sermonizing can influence beliefs and behaviors by appealing to emotions and moral values, engaging listeners on a deeper level.
  • Research shows that storytelling in sermonizing increases retention of messages, making lessons more memorable.
  • The social aspect of sermonizing can foster a sense of community and shared values among listeners.

Literature

  • Many classic literary works incorporate sermonizing, reflecting the culture and moral values of their time, much like in the Bible.
  • Authors, like Jonathan Edwards, are known for their powerful sermonizing style that evokes strong emotional reactions.
  • Sermonizing themes appear in modern literature, highlighting moral dilemmas that resonate with contemporary issues.

Origin of 'sermonizing'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'sermonem,' meaning 'speech or conversation,' showing its roots in communication.
  • The term took shape in Middle English during the 14th century, reflecting its religious significance in church teachings.
  • Sermonizing has evolved from formal church settings to broader contexts, such as social activism and public speaking.

The word 'sermonizing' originates from the late Middle English word 'sermonise', which in turn comes from the Old French word 'sermoniser', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'sermo' meaning 'discourse'. The term has evolved over time to encompass both religious and non-religious contexts, reflecting the act of delivering a moral or educational message in a formal or authoritative manner.

See also: sermonize.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,797, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.