ˈhäməlē, -li noun
( -es )
Etymology: alteration (influenced by Late Latin homilia ) of Middle English omelie, from Middle French, from Late Latin homilia, from Late Greek, from Greek, conversation, discourse, from homilein to consort with, talk with, address, make a speech (from homilos crowd, assembly) + -ia — more at militate
1. : a discourse on a religious theme especially delivered to a congregation during a church service
ideas derived from homilies and the common teaching of the church — W.P.Ker
2. : a lecture or discussion on a moral theme : admonition
the criminal of old was given copious drafts of exhortation and homily administered … by reformers — B.N.Cardozo