lecture

Pronunciation: /ˈlɛktʃər/

noun

Difficulty: common

Definition of lecture

An educational discourse or formal speech delivered to an audience, often for instructional purposes, typically at a university or academic setting.

Origin of lecture

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: lectura

Original meaning: a reading

How it evolved: Initially used to refer to the act of reading aloud, the term evolved to describe academic discourses delivered to an audience, often in a formal instructional setting.

The word 'lecture' originates from the Latin word 'lectura,' meaning 'a reading,' reflecting its early use as a term for reading aloud academic texts.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember lecture

Picture a professor in a lecture hall giving a 'lesson'—both words share the root 'lect,' which relates to reading or speaking.

Synonyms for lecture

  • discourse
  • oration
  • address
  • sermon
  • presentation
  • exposition
  • seminar
  • tutorial

Antonyms of lecture

  • dialogue
  • conversation
  • discussion
  • exchange
  • debate

lecture in a Sentence

  1. The professor’s lecture on quantum mechanics was both intellectually stimulating and meticulously organized.
  2. Attending the renowned historian’s lecture on the Renaissance gave the audience a deeper appreciation for the era’s cultural achievements.
  3. She delivered a powerful lecture on climate change, urging immediate action to mitigate its effects.

lecture in Literature & Culture

Lectures have played a pivotal role in intellectual history, from Socrates' philosophical discourses to Martin Luther King's iconic speeches, shaping societal thought and progress.

Usage Notes

While 'lecture' can imply a formal educational talk, it can also carry a slightly negative connotation when used to describe a reprimand, as in 'stop lecturing me.' Context is key to understanding the intended meaning.

Why lecture Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'lecture' is significant for GRE test-takers due to its frequent appearance in reading comprehension passages discussing academia, education, or intellectual discourse.

Word Family

lecturer (noun)
A person who delivers lectures, typically in an academic or professional context.
lecturing (verb)
The act of delivering a lecture or formal educational speech.
lecture hall (noun)
A large room designed for the delivery of lectures to an audience, often found in universities.

Did You Know?

  • The tradition of giving lectures dates back to medieval universities, where professors would read aloud from textbooks to students.
  • In modern times, TED Talks are considered a form of lecture, blending education with entertainment.
  • The word 'lecture' can also be used figuratively, as in 'giving someone a lecture,' to describe offering unsolicited advice or criticism.
  • discourse
  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret

More Vocabulary Words Starting with L

  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • label — A small piece of paper attached to an object giving information about it
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • labor — Physical or mental work; the workforce
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • laconic — economical with words; quiet and reserved
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lambaste — scold, reprimand, or criticize harshly
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret
  • lament — express deep sorrow or regret