rector — English Dictionary

Noun

1. In the Anglican Church, a cleric in charge of a parish and who owns the tithes of it.

   Broader terms

   cleric

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   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.

   Broader terms

   cleric

3. A priest or bishop in the Orthodox Church who is in charge of a parish or in an administrative leadership position in a theological seminary or academy.

   Usage

   • Uncommon

   Broader terms

   cleric

4. In a Protestant church, a pastor in charge of a church with administrative and pastoral leadership combined.

   Broader terms

   cleric

5. A headmaster or headmistress in various educational institutions, e.g., a university.

6. An official in Scottish universities who heads the university court and is elected by and represents the student body.

   Usage

   • Scotland

Noun

1. a person authorized to conduct religious worship

   Synonyms

   curateminister of religionministerparsonpastor

   Broader terms

   reverend

   Examples

   clergymen are usually called ministers in Protestant churches