What is the meaning of the word ''sermon''?

The dictionary definition of a sermon is as follows:

1. a religious discourse delivered in public usually by a clergyman as a part of a worship service


2. a speech on conduct or duty

Most people are familiar with sermons in relation to religious life. When someone attends a service at their church, temple, mosque, or other house of worship, their religious leader may speak on a specific subject. Many religious services follow some amount of prescribed order which is repeated at each meeting. However, the religious leader may use their sermon to also address particular issues affecting the congregation at that time. For example, a priest may give a special sermon on grief when a member of the community passes away. They may also give special sermons with regard to holidays or events in religious life.

Sermons typically offer some amount of advice, and for this reason someone might also call a secular lecture on behavior a sermon.