lesson

American  

[les-uhn] / ˈlɛs ən /

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.

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verb (used with object)

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

2. to admonish or reprove.

lesson British  

/ 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

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verb

1. rare (tr) to censure or punish

lesson Idioms  

1. see learn one's lesson; teach a lesson.

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Etymology

Origin of lesson

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

Example Sentences

One lesson that resonated: When people reach a certain age, they don’t want to travel, so she and her husband are budgeting for future trips.

From The Wall Street Journal

Over the years Cal Fire has expanded these hazard zones, while the Legislature has continued adding safety requirements for areas within them, based on lessons learned from past wildfires.

From Los Angeles Times

In a message to pupils and parents, the school said some children were using their phones during lessons and others to record fellow students and sometimes staff without their consent.

From BBC

Not surprisingly, his affections weren’t returned, but the humbling experience taught him several career-defining lessons.

From Barron's

If you do end up with an ill-equipped manager, there are likely lessons to be learned from that experience, too, as you move to find a better fit elsewhere.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

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