<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>a speech read or delivered before an audience or class, especially for instruction or to set forth some subject: a lecture on Picasso's paintings.</li><li>a speech of warning or reproof as to conduct; a long, tedious reprimand.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object) to give a lecture or series of lectures: He spent the year lecturing to various student groups.</li><li>(used with object) to deliver a lecture to or before; instruct by lectures.</li><li>to rebuke or reprimand at some length: He lectured the child regularly but with little effect.</li></ul>