homily

UK: ˈhɒmɪli | US: ˈhɑːməli

Definition
  1. n. a sermon or religious discourse intended for spiritual edification

  2. n. a moralizing lecture or admonition

Structure
hom <same>ily <noun suffix>hom <same>ily <noun suffix>
Etymology

homily = hom<same> + ily<noun suffix>

  • hom<same>: From Greek homos (ὁμός), meaning "same" or "similar."
  • ily<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns, often indicating a state or quality (derived via Latin -ilia).

Etymology Origin:
The word homily traces back to the Greek homilia (ὁμιλία), meaning "conversation" or "discourse," derived from homos ("same") + -ilia (association). In early Christian context, it referred to informal sermons where the speaker and audience shared a common spiritual purpose. Over time, it evolved to denote moral or religious instruction, emphasizing unity in message and intent.

Examples
  1. The priest delivered a homily on the importance of compassion.

  2. Her advice felt more like a homily than a casual conversation.

  3. The professor’s lecture turned into a homily about academic integrity.

  4. Ancient homilies often used parables to convey deeper truths.

  5. He sighed as his father launched into another homily about responsibility.