Emily Dickinson Lexicon

LEC'TURE, n. [Fr. lecture, from L. lectura, from lego, to read.]

1. 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.
2. A reading; the act or practice of reading; as in the lecture of the Holy Scripture. [Little used.] – Brown.
3. A magisterial reprimand; a formal reproof. – Addison.
4. A recitation; rehearsal of a lesson. – Eng. Univ.