Preach

Definition

Preach primarily refers to the act of delivering a sermon or religious message, especially in a church or as part of religious worship. It can also mean to publicly proclaim or teach a religious message or belief.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /priːtʃ/
• Respelling: PREECH (with "PREE" as in "tree," and "CH" as in "cheese")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /priːtʃ/
• Respelling: PREECH (similar to American English, with "PREE" as in "tree," and "CH" as in "cheese")

In both dialects, "preach" is pronounced with the primary stress on the single syllable, "PREECH." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, emphasizing the clear, concise articulation of the word.

Etymology

The term "preach" originates from the Old French word "prechier", which is derived from the Latin "prædicare", meaning "to proclaim publicly, announce". The word has ecclesiastical roots, linking it to the proclamation of religious teachings.

Derivatives

• Preacher
• Preaching
• Preachy
• Preached
• Preachable

Synonyms

• Proclaim
• Sermonize
• Evangelize

Antonyms

• Suppress
• Conceal
• Withhold

Usage

"Preach" is commonly used in religious contexts to describe the act of delivering sermons or religious messages. However, it can also be used in a secular context to mean advocating strongly for a particular idea or cause.

Related Terms

• Sermon
• Pulpit
• Doctrine
• Teachings
• Propagate

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To deliver a sermon or religious address to an assembled group of people, typically in a church.
• Example: "The bishop will preach at the cathedral this Sunday."

• To publicly proclaim or teach a religious message or belief.
• Example: "Missionaries went to the village to preach Christianity."

• To earnestly advocate a belief or course of action.
• Example: "She would always preach the virtues of a healthy lifestyle."

Noun

• The act or practice of delivering a religious message, especially as part of worship in a church.
• Example: "The preacher's preach was about love and compassion."