lecture

[ lek-cher ]

noun

1. a speech read or delivered before an audience or class, especially for instruction or to set forth some subject:

   a lecture on Picasso's paintings.

   Synonyms: discourse, paper, talk, address

2. a speech of warning or reproof as to conduct; a long, tedious reprimand.

verb (used without object)

, lec·tured, lec·tur·ing.

1. to give a lecture or series of lectures:

   He spent the year lecturing to various student groups.

verb (used with object)

, lec·tured, lec·tur·ing.

1. to deliver a lecture to or before; instruct by lectures.

   Synonyms: address, teach

2. to rebuke or reprimand at some length:

   He lectured the child regularly but with little effect.

   Synonyms: hector, admonish

lecture

/ ˈlɛktʃə /

noun

1. a discourse on a particular subject given or read to an audience
2. the text of such a discourse
3. a method of teaching by formal discourse
4. a lengthy reprimand or scolding

verb

1. to give or read a lecture (to an audience or class)
2. tr to reprimand at length

Other Words From

• pre·lecture noun adjective verb prelectured prelecturing
• un·lectured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of lecture¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Medieval Latin lēctūra “a reading”; lection, -ure

Word History and Origins

Origin of lecture¹

C14: from Medieval Latin lectūra reading, from legere to read

Example Sentences

The school district placed the teacher on leave after a profanity-filled anti-Trump lecture he gave to his history students.

From Los Angeles Times

Prof David Maguire, the vice chancellor, says “difficult decisions” have led to a 20% reduction in the number of courses, increased lecture group sizes, less one-to-one contact between academics and students, and fewer staff in student support including in mental health and counselling.

From BBC

In a recording of his lecture that was shared by a conservative commentator on X, Perez asked his students pointed questions about a second Trump presidency, but did not seem to invite a discourse as he railed against the once and future president.

From Los Angeles Times

“I think this was taken completely out of context, and it made him look bad,” said student Jada Carroll, who was in class during the lecture.

From Los Angeles Times

And a big lecture from Grant’s murderous Mr. Reed about how they were exactly where they wanted to be.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• admonish
• chide
• preach
• scold