Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to the art of preaching or composing sermons: Pertaining to the study, principles, or practice of homiletics.
   • Resembling or characteristic of a sermon: Having the instructive, moralizing, or exhortative tone often associated with a formal religious address.

Usage

The word "homiletic" is primarily used in formal, academic, or religious contexts to describe either the methodology of preaching or a style of discourse that is didactic and moralizing. * It is used to describe speech, writing, or style. * It can describe content, delivery, or technique.

Examples

• The professor's homiletic style made his lectures on ethics feel like powerful sermons.
• The book analyzes the homiletic techniques used by 19th-century preachers.
• His advice, though well-intentioned, often took on a homiletic tone that his children found tedious.

Advanced Usage

• Homiletic Tradition: Refers to the established methods and styles of sermon composition and delivery within a particular religious community or historical period.
  • The Puritan homiletic tradition emphasized plain speaking and direct application of scripture.

Variants and Related Words

• Homiletics (noun): The art or study of preaching and composing sermons.
  • She studied homiletics at the seminary.
• Homily (noun): A sermon or moralizing lecture.
  • The priest delivered a short homily on forgiveness.

Synonyms

• Didactic: Intended to teach, particularly in a moralistic way.
• Preachy: Inclined to give moral advice in a tedious or pompous manner (often negative).
• Sermonic: Relating to or resembling a sermon.
• Exhortative: Aimed at strongly encouraging or urging someone to do something.

Antonyms

• Secular: Not religious or spiritual.
• Conversational: Characteristic of informal talk.
• Uninstructive: Not providing knowledge or moral guidance.

Adjective

1. of or relating to homiletics
   • homiletic speech
2. of the nature of a homily or sermon