lecture

American  

[lek-cher] / ˈlɛk tʃər /

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.

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verb (used without object)

lectured, lecturing

1. to give a lecture or series of lectures.

   He spent the year lecturing to various student groups.

verb (used with object)

lectured, lecturing

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

   Synonyms:

   teach, address

2. to rebuke or reprimand at some length.

   He lectured the child regularly but with little effect.

   Synonyms:

   hector, admonish

lecture British  

/ 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

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verb

1. to give or read a lecture (to an audience or class)

2. (tr) to reprimand at length

Other Word Forms

• prelecture noun
• unlectured adjective

Etymology

Origin of lecture

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

Example Sentences

It would never be mistaken for a dry lecture or a didactic pamphlet.

From Los Angeles Times

It has two lecture halls, 19 classrooms and a trading and research lab.

From The Wall Street Journal

Plans include film screenings, lectures, tutoring, youth workshops and community events.

From Los Angeles Times

It was harder to recognize people, communicate with friends and understand lectures.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sabrina Caldwell, who lectures in ethics in technology at UNSW, agrees the changes will be flawed, much like the social media ban, but they will create an extra barrier.

From BBC

Related Words

• admonish
• chide
• preach
• scold