Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SER'MON, n. [Fr. from L. sermo, from the root of sero, the primary sense of which is to throw or thrust. See Assert, Insert.]

A discourse delivered in public by a licensed clergyman for the purpose of religious instruction, and usually grounded on some text or passage of Scripture. Sermons are extemporary addresses, or written discourses. His preaching much, but more his practice wrought, / A living sermon of the truths he taught. – Dryden. 2 A printed discourse.