preach

Preach is a verb centered on delivering a formal or moral message. In religious contexts, to preach means to deliver a sermon or address in a worship service, often by a clergy member or lay preacher. The act may aim to instruct, persuade, or exhort listeners to adopt beliefs or behaviors. A person who preaches is called a preacher, and the act of giving sermons is called preaching; in some traditions the sermon is distinguished from a homily in length or style.

Beyond religious settings, the verb can mean to publicly advocate or urge a particular belief, policy, or course of action. It is commonly used with phrases such as "to preach against" or "to preach the gospel" in secular rhetoric. The word can carry a formal or moralizing tone; when used pejoratively, "preachy" or "preaching" describes a tone perceived as moralizing or unsolicited instruction.

In modern usage, preaching can be applied to secular contexts as well, from political rhetoric and motivational speaking to editorials and online commentary. The effectiveness of preaching depends on audience, authenticity, and relevance of the message; overly didactic or judgmental delivery may reduce receptivity even among sympathetic listeners. Some traditions emphasize that preaching should be grounded in ethical example as well as spoken word.