To preach means to give a religious sermon or lesson, usually from a pulpit in a church, synagogue, or mosque. A minister preaches on Sunday morning, explaining scripture and sharing spiritual guidance with the congregation. The word comes from religious settings where clergy would teach and inspire their communities.

The word has expanded beyond religious settings. When someone preaches about something, they're talking enthusiastically and insistently about what they believe is right, often trying to convince others to agree. A friend who constantly tells you to eat healthier might be preaching about nutrition. A classmate passionate about recycling might preach about environmental responsibility.

Sometimes preaching can feel pushy or preachy, especially when someone lectures others without being asked. If you tell your friend they should study harder and they respond, “Don't preach to me,” they're saying they don't want a lecture. There's a big difference between sharing helpful advice when asked and preaching at someone who didn't request your opinion.

The phrase practicing what you preach means actually doing what you tell others to do. If a coach preaches the importance of practice but rarely shows up, they're not practicing what they preach, and people will notice the hypocrisy.