Intended to teach or instruct, often in a way that is overly moralistic or preachy. Can describe literature, speech, or behavior that aims to educate but may come across as condescending.
From Greek 'didaktikos' meaning 'apt at teaching,' derived from 'didaskein' (to teach). The word entered English in the 17th century, initially with neutral connotations but later developing the negative sense of being overly instructional.
Think of a 'did-actic' teacher who always says 'did you know...' in a preachy way! The key is remembering that didactic has a double edge—it can mean educational OR annoyingly preachy, depending on context.
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