lesson

[les-uhn]

noun

1. a section into which a course of study is divided, especially a single, continuous session of formal instruction in a subject.

   The manual was broken down into 50 lessons.

2. a part of a book, an exercise, etc., that is assigned to a student for study.

   The lesson for today is on page 22. He worked assiduously at his music lesson.

3. something to be learned or studied.

   the lessons of the past.

4. a useful piece of practical wisdom acquired by experience or study.

   That accident certainly taught him a lesson in careful driving.

5. something from which a person learns or should learn; an instructive example.

   Her faith should serve as a lesson to all of us.

6. a reproof or punishment intended to teach one better ways.

7. a portion of Scripture or other sacred writing read or appointed to be read at a divine service; lection; pericope.

verb (used with object)

1. to teach; instruct; give a lesson to.

2. to admonish or reprove.

lesson

/ ˈlɛsən /

noun

1. 1. a unit, or single period of instruction in a subject; class

      an hour-long music lesson

   2. the content of such a unit

2. material assigned for individual study

3. something from which useful knowledge or principles can be learned; example

4. the principles, knowledge, etc, gained

5. a reprimand or punishment intended to correct

6. a portion of Scripture appointed to be read at divine service

verb

1. rare,  (tr) to censure or punish

Word History and Origins

Origin of lesson¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English lesso(u)n, from Old French leçon, from Latin lēctiōn-, stem of lēctiō “a reading”; lection

Word History and Origins

Origin of lesson¹

C13: from Old French leçon, from Latin lēctiō, from legere to read

Idioms and Phrases

see learn one's lesson; teach a lesson.

Example Sentences

The lesson is straightforward, says Workhelix Chief Executive James Milin: Willingness to experiment, not the business role, is the most important factor determining workers’ eagerness to adopt AI.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Jeamie grew up hearing these tales while north London offered its own lessons.

Read more on BBC

"A range of learning activities will be set... any additional teacher support in lessons will take place via Teams message or school email."

Read more on BBC

"We will take this experience as a lesson, and will strive to improve the accuracy and speed of our future information dissemination," the town said.

Read more on Barron's

Friends and family say Munger’s eventful last period offers lessons for investors—and a blueprint for how to age with grace, equanimity and purpose.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• class 
• education 
• exercise 
• homework 
• instruction 
• lecture 
• practice 
• reading 
• study 
• task 
• teaching 
• test