English Reference
noun

editor

n.
US /ˈɛdətɝ/ UK /ˈɛdɪtɐ/ ed·i·tor UK spelling editor's, editor's

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    a person who checks and corrects books, newspapers, or articles before they are printed.

    a professional responsible for the content, style, and accuracy of a publication, often deciding which pieces are accepted for print.

    Simple

    The editor asked the writer to make the first chapter shorter and more exciting.

    In context

    After months of research, the journalist finally submitted her draft to the senior editor for a final review before the Sunday edition went to press.

    copy editorproofreader
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Computing

    a computer program that you use to write or change files, like text or code.

    a software application designed for creating and modifying files, typically referring to text, source code, or system configurations.

    Simple

    I use a simple text editor to write my notes because it opens very quickly.

    In context

    The developer preferred using a lightweight text editor for quick scripts rather than launching a full integrated development environment.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    a person who cuts and joins pieces of film or video to make a finished movie.

    a technician or artist who selects and assembles recorded visual footage into a coherent finished product.

    Simple

    The film editor spent weeks choosing the best shots for the movie's trailer.

    In context

    The lead editor worked closely with the director to ensure that the pacing of the final cut maintained the intended suspense throughout the third act.

    film editorvideo editor

Usage editor digital · editor museums · editor science


From Medieval Latin ēditor, from Late Latin ēditor, from ēditus, perfect passive participle of ēdō (“give out, put forth, publish”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin la-lat ēditor
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated