sermon

noun

ser·​mon ˈsər-mən 

1

: a religious discourse delivered in public usually by a member of the clergy as a part of a worship service

2

: a speech on conduct or duty

sermonic

ˌsər-ˈmä-nik 

adjective

Synonyms of sermon

• lesson
• speech
• homily
• lecture

Examples of sermon in a Sentence

He preached a sermon on the importance of kindness.

Dad gave me a sermon yesterday about doing my homework.

Recent Examples on the Web

Kelly, alongside a mob of activists, allegedly stormed Cities Church over the weekend, disrupting a Sunday sermon based on allegations that one of the pastors, David Easterwood, is an ICE official. —Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 22 Jan. 2026

At the end of his sermon, Russell offered an instruction to the worshippers, several of whom were visibly emotional. —Grace Gilson, Sun Sentinel, 20 Jan. 2026

King’s ability to take ideas from White preachers’ bland sermons and convert them to stirring oratory was part of his genius, Miller says. —John Blake, CNN Money, 18 Jan. 2026

Deborah Williams, a member of New Covenant for 49 years, said Sunday’s sermon was timely. —Madeline King, Chicago Tribune, 18 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French sermun, from Medieval Latin sermon-, sermo, from Latin, speech, conversation, from serere to link together — more at series

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sermon

• birman
• burman
• ermine
• firman
• german
• kirman
• spermine
• termen
• termine
• vermin
• determine
• predetermine

Kids Definition

sermon

noun

ser·​mon ˈsər-mən 

1

: a public speech usually by a priest, minister, or rabbi for the purpose of giving religious instruction

2

: a speech on conduct or duty