sermonize

== English == === Alternative forms === sermonise === Etymology === From sermon + -ize. === Verb === sermonize (third-person singular simple present sermonizes, present participle sermonizing, simple past and past participle sermonized) (intransitive) To speak in the manner of a sermon; to preach; to propagate one's morality or opinions with speech. (transitive) To preach a sermon to (somebody); to give (somebody) instruction or admonishment on the basis of one's morality or opinions. (transitive) To say in the manner of a sermon or lecture. 1917, George Creel (uncredited author) and Douglas Fairbanks, Laugh and Live, New York: Britton, Chapter 17, p. 144,[10] Then as one man they jumped to their feet and by reason of prolonged cheering gave national impulse to a thought which has since been sermonized from thousands of pulpits. (intransitive) To inculcate rigid rules. ==== Usage notes ==== The term sermonize generally carries a negative connotation (implying dreariness, longwindedness, imposing one’s beliefs on others, etc.) that is not shared by such phrases as deliver a sermon, preach a sermon, etc. ==== Synonyms ==== (speak in the manner of a sermon): moralize (preach a sermon to (somebody)): lecture, pontificate, preachify ==== Derived terms ====