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Synonyms

lector

American  
[lek-ter] / ˈlɛk tər /

noun

  1. a lecturer in a college or university.

  2. Roman Catholic Church.

    1. a member of the next to lowest-ranking of the minor orders.

    2. the order itself.


lector British  
/ ˈlɛktɔː, ˈlɛktərɪt /

noun

  1. a lecturer or reader in certain universities

  2. RC Church

    1. a person appointed to read lessons at certain services

    2. (in convents or monastic establishments) a member of the community appointed to read aloud during meals

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • lectorate noun
  • lectorship noun

Etymology

Origin of lector

1425–75; late Middle English < Latin: a reader, equivalent to leg ( ere ) to read + -tor -tor

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Caveat lector: Failing to peruse this list of July releases may result in a severe deficit of variety in your vacation reading.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2023

Francis gave a bible to each lector and a crucifix to each catechist.

From Reuters • Jan. 23, 2022

He has coached girls basketball teams and serves as a lector and usher at Blessed Sacrament Church.

From The Guardian • Sep. 3, 2018

And Paul Pekarek, a lifelong member at St. John’s, now sometimes serves as lector at Saints Peter and Paul.

From Washington Times • May 20, 2017

I knew that voice; he was a lector in church.

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie