Rector

Pronunciation

Alternative forms

• rectour obsolete

Origin

From Latin, itself from rectus, past participle of regere 'to direct'

Full definition of rector

Noun

1. In the Anglican Church, a cleric in charge of a parish and who owns the tithes of it.
• 1918, W. B. Maxwell, The Mirror and the Lamp Chapter 10, It was a joy to snatch some brief respite, and find himself in the rectory drawing–room. Listening here was as pleasant as talking; just to watch was pleasant. The young priests who lived here wore cassocks and birettas; their faces were fine and mild, yet really strong, like the rector's face; and in their intercourse with him and his wife they seemed to be brothers.
2. In the Roman Catholic Church, a cleric with managerial as well as spiritual responsibility for a church or other institution.
3. A headmaster in various educational institutions, e.g. a university.

Related terms

• rectorate
• rectorial
• rectory
• rectrix