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sermón

ser-MOHN/seɾˈmon/

“sermón” means “sermon” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

sermon

Also: homily
NounmB1
A person standing behind a wooden podium in a peaceful hall, speaking to a group of people.

📝 In Action

El cura dio un sermón muy inspirador el domingo pasado.

B1

The priest gave a very inspiring sermon last Sunday.

A mitad del sermón, un niño empezó a llorar.

B1

In the middle of the sermon, a child started to cry.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • homilía (homily)
  • prédica (preaching)

Common Collocations

  • dar un sermón – to give a sermon
  • el sermón de la montaña – the Sermon on the Mount

lecture, talking-to

Also: earful
NounmB1informal
A stern adult pointing a finger while talking to a child who is looking down.

📝 In Action

Mi padre me echó un sermón por llegar tarde a casa.

B1

My father gave me a lecture for arriving home late.

No me vengas con otro sermón sobre mis notas.

B2

Don't give me another lecture about my grades.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • regañina (scolding)
  • bronca (row/telling off)

Common Collocations

  • echar un sermón – to give a lecture/scolding
  • soltar un sermón – to deliver a (boring) lecture

Idioms & Expressions

  • dar un sermón – To scold someone at length about their behavior.

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "sermón" in Spanish:

homily→sermon→talking-to→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: sermón

Question 1 of 2

If your boss is angry and talks to you for 20 minutes about your mistakes, what is he giving you?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
sermonear(to lecture/preach at someone) — Verb
sermoneador(someone who lectures others) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
canciónlimóncorazón
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin word 'sermo,' which originally just meant 'conversation' or 'talk' before it became associated with religious speeches in church.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: sermonFrench: sermon

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'sermón' considered a rude word?

Not at all! It's neutral. However, if you say someone is 'giving you a sermon,' it implies you find their advice or scolding a bit long and boring.

Can I use 'sermón' for a university lecture?

No, for a school or university lecture, use the word 'clase' or 'conferencia'. 'Sermón' is specifically for religious or moral scolding.