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.

Sure, he’s protected by his wealth and his celebrity; sure, he’s preaching to the choir in every city he and the E Street Band visit.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

There’s little time spent on subtext, and even less on preaching.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 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

Last year, authorities banned clergy of all religions from preaching live on social media, organising online activities for children, and raising funds online, unless these are carried out on government-approved platforms.

From BBC • 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