Synonyms

preaching

American

[pree-ching] / ˈpri tʃɪŋ /

noun

the act or practice of a person who preaches.
the art of delivering sermons.
a sermon.
a public religious service with a sermon.

adjective

of, relating to, or resembling preaching.

a preaching tone of voice.

Other Word Forms

nonpreaching adjective
preachingly adverb
unpreaching adjective

Etymology

Origin of preaching

1225–75; Middle English preching (gerund); preach, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jackson traveled the country preaching self-esteem and self-discipline.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 17, 2026

"These communities have been receiving these pamphlets, soliciting them to join the extremist views and preaching by these militants," Isa Sanusi, head of Amnesty International in Nigeria, told the BBC's Newsday programme.

From BBC • Feb. 6, 2026

"St Francis of Assisi remains the most famous 'nature saint', best known for preaching to birds. In a more eco-conscious world, the Augustinians deserve much more attention."

From Science Daily • Feb. 2, 2026

Of course, Sam’s Dad is preaching caution—because that’s what fathers do.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

Rev. Owens, despite his preaching talents, wasn’t even in the top five.

From "The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother" by James McBride

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023