Synonyms for

Sermons

Verb / ˈsɜ:mʌnz / Another word for sermons — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A talk on a religious or moral subject that is usually given by a member of the clergy.

Synonyms & similar words

preaching discourse sermon homily lecture address discourse oration lesson speech talk preaching lessonette exhortation teaching preachment sermonette lessonlet doctrine morality admonition instruction lessonette

Synonyms by register

Formal

discourse address oration preachment

Informal

lecture talk spiel rant

Literary

homily exhortation

Antonyms

silence private talk individual counsel dialogue conversation discussion discourse

Common collocations

  • deliver a sermon
  • give a sermon
  • Sunday sermon
  • church sermon
  • long sermon
  • short sermon
  • passionate sermon
  • powerful sermon

Word family

noun sermon
verb sermonize

Usage note

While 'sermon' primarily refers to a religious speech, it can also be used informally to describe a long, moralizing lecture.

Example sentences

  1. The priest gave a sermon about the importance of kindness to others.
  2. The pastors sermon was so inspiring that many people cried.
  3. I try to listen carefully to the sermons at church every week.
  4. The rabbis sermon on forgiveness was very moving.
  5. The ministers sermon was filled with hope and love.

Quotes

  • A good sermon should be like a womans skirt: short enough to arouse interest but long enough to cover the essentials. - Ronald Knox
  • The pulpit is a sort of panic button for a congregation. - Peter De Vries
  • A sermon is not an essay, and a preacher is not a lecturer or a teacher. - John Stott

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