Lecture Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈlɛk.tʃər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A detailed and systematic speech or talk, usually given by a teacher or expert, to inform, explain, or persuade an audience, often in a formal setting.

Examples

• The professor delivered a three-hour lecture on quantum physics.
• The keynote speaker gave a lecture on artificial intelligence at the conference.

Synonyms

• Speech
• Talk
• Address

Antonyms

• Confidential
• Private

Etymology

The word “lecture” comes from the Latin “lectus”, meaning “reading” or “speech”, and has been used in English since the 14th century.

Usage Notes

Lectures are often formal and structured, but they can also be informal and conversational, depending on the context and purpose.

Cultural References

Lectures have been depicted in popular culture, such as in films like “Good Will Hunting” and “The Breakfast Club”, and in TV shows like “House of Cards” and “The Office.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Lecture in flight: to give a lecture while flying.

Related Words or Phrases

Class, address, present, discuss

Collocations

Deliver a lecture, attend a lecture, give a lecture on

Frequency of Use

Lectures are commonly used in academic and educational settings, but they can also be used in professional and business contexts, with an estimated 10% frequency of use in everyday language.

Common Misspellings

Lekchure, Lekcher, Lecturee