from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Preach \Preach\, v. t.
1. To proclaim by public discourse; to utter in a sermon or a
formal religious harangue.
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That Cristes gospel truly wolde preche. --Chaucer.
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The Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings
unto the meek. --Isa. lxi. 1.
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2. To inculcate in public discourse; to urge with earnestness
by public teaching. "I have preached righteousness in the
great congregation." --Ps. xl. 9.
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3. To deliver or pronounce; as, to preach a sermon.
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4. To teach or instruct by preaching; to inform by preaching.
[R.] "As ye are preached." --Southey.
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5. To advise or recommend earnestly.
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My master preaches patience to him. --Shak.
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{To preach down}, to oppress, or humiliate by preaching.
--Tennyson.
{To preach up}, to exalt by preaching; to preach in support
of; as, to preach up equality.
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