# cantor

/ˈkæntɝ/ (US) · /kˈɑːntɔː/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cantor
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a person who leads the singing in a church or synagogue. They are often trained musicians who help the group follow the music during a religious service.

For teachers: an official who leads the musical elements of a liturgy or religious service. In Jewish tradition, the role involves singing liturgical solos and leading the congregation in prayer.

## Examples

- The cantor has a beautiful and powerful singing voice.
- During the holiday service, the cantor led the congregation in a series of traditional hymns.
- The cathedral's cantor is responsible not only for leading the choir during Sunday mass but also for selecting the liturgical music for the entire ecclesiastical year.

## Usage notes

- Often used in specific religious contexts, particularly within Judaism and certain Christian denominations like Lutheranism or Catholicism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.