homily

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/ˈhɒmɪli/
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A formal word for a religious sermon or scripture commentary, and by extension a moralizing or preachy speech.

Examples

  • A children's homily explained the lesson in simple language.
  • Her warning sounded less like advice and more like a homily.
  • Nobody wanted another homily about saving money.
  • He launched into a homily about hard work.
  • The Easter service included a well-known homily.

Similar words

scriptural commentary
lecture
discourse
reflection
religious address
preachy talk
sermon
platitude
sermon
preaching

Meanings

Religious sermon or commentary

noun
literary
formal
A sermon or spoken reflection, especially one explaining a passage of scripture during a religious service.

Examples

  • The priest gave a short homily after the Gospel reading.
  • The Easter service included a well-known homily.
  • Her homily connected the scripture to everyday acts of mercy.
  • The congregation listened quietly during the homily.
  • A children's homily explained the lesson in simple language.

Similar words

Moralizing lecture

noun
everyday
formal
A serious or unwanted speech that gives moral advice, often in a way that feels preachy or tedious.

Examples

  • He launched into a homily about hard work.
  • The article ends with a familiar homily on personal responsibility.
  • Nobody wanted another homily about saving money.
  • Her warning sounded less like advice and more like a homily.
  • The speech turned into a homily on discipline.

Similar words

Etymology

From Greek homilia, meaning conversation, association, or address, later used for a religious discourse. The church sense developed into a scripture-based sermon, while the secular sense kept the idea of a serious moral address.

FAQ

What does homily mean?

It means a religious sermon or scripture commentary, and sometimes a moralizing or preachy speech.

Is a homily the same as a sermon?

They overlap. A homily is often a kind of sermon, especially one connected to scripture in a religious service.

Can homily be used outside religion?

Yes. Outside religion it often means a moralizing lecture, usually with a slightly negative tone.

What is the plural of homily?

The plural is homilies.

Is homily the same as homely?

No. Homily means a sermon or moralizing speech. Homely is a different word.

What is a synonym for homily?

Synonyms include sermon, religious address, lecture, exhortation, and moralizing speech.

How do you use homily in a sentence?

For example: The priest gave a short homily after the Gospel reading.

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