A discourse read or pronounced on any subject; usually, a formal or methodical discourse, intended for instruction; as a lecture on morals, philosophy, rhetoric, or theology.

A reading; the act or practice of reading; as in the lecture of Holy Scripture.

A magisterial reprimand; a formal reproof.

A recitation; rehearsal of a lesson.

To read or deliver a formal discourse.

To practice reading lectures for instruction. We say, the professor lectures on geometry, or on chimistry.

To instruct by discourses.

To instruct dogmatically or authoritatively; to reprove; as, to lecture one for his faults.