# prof

/pɹˈɒf/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. university teacher

noun · CEFR B1 · Informal

a short name for a professor at a college or university.

For teachers: An informal clipping of 'professor', commonly used by students to refer to their instructors.

- I need to talk to my history prof about the essay deadline.
- The students often referred to him as 'the prof' behind his back, though they maintained a strictly formal tone during his lectures.

Usage: Typically used as a common noun in speech, though it can appear as a title before a surname in casual writing.

Teaching tip: While common in speech, students should avoid using this abbreviation in formal essays or professional emails unless they have a very close relationship with the instructor.

## Examples

- I need to ask the Prof about my grade.
- Most students call him Prof Miller because he prefers a more relaxed atmosphere in his seminars.
- While the formal title is required for official correspondence, many faculty members encourage students to use 'Prof' during office hours to foster a more approachable learning environment.

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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.