# rector

/ˈɹɛktɝ/ (US) · /ɹˈɛktɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a person in charge of a religious or educational institution. You might meet one at a church or a university.

For teachers: the head of certain universities, colleges, or schools; also refers to a member of the clergy in charge of a parish.

## Examples

- The rector gave a speech at the graduation ceremony.
- After the previous leader retired, the university board appointed a new rector to oversee the campus expansion.
- The rector of the historic parish worked closely with local historians to ensure the restoration of the 12th-century chapel remained architecturally accurate.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in European academic contexts or within the Anglican and Episcopal churches.

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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.