As a Noun: 1. A person, usually a member of the clergy, who preaches sermons as part of a church service. English = preacher. 2. A talk on a religious or moral subject during a church service; a talk which tries to persuade other people to accept a belief or to take a course of action. English = sermon. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To give a talk on a religious or moral subject during a church service; to try to persuade other people to accept a belief or to take a course of action. English = preach.