professor

[prəˈfesər]

professor Definition

  • 1a teacher of the highest rank in a college or university, who has been awarded the title Professor in a particular subject
  • 2a person who is an expert in a particular field and often gives lectures or writes books on their subject

Using professor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "professor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She is a professor of physics at the university.

  • Example

    He is a renowned professor of literature.

  • Example

    The professor gave a lecture on the history of art.

  • Example

    The new professor is an expert in environmental studies.

professor Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for professor

Antonyms for professor

Idioms Using professor

  • relating to or characteristic of a professor, especially in being studious and learned

    Example

    His professorial demeanor and extensive knowledge impressed his students.

  • a state of privileged seclusion or separation from the facts and practicalities of the real world

    Example

    Some people accuse professors of living in an ivory tower and being out of touch with reality.

  • the idea that academics must continually publish research in order to advance their careers

    Example

    The pressure to publish or perish can be overwhelming for young professors.

Phrases with professor

  • a professor who has achieved the highest rank in their academic career

    Example

    She became a full professor after years of hard work and dedication.

  • a professor who is at the beginning of their academic career and has not yet achieved tenure

    Example

    He was hired as an assistant professor and hopes to become a full professor someday.

  • a professor who is invited to teach at a college or university for a limited period of time

    Example

    The department invited a visiting professor from Europe to give a series of lectures on philosophy.

Origins of professor

from Latin 'professor', meaning 'declarer, person who professes'

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Summary: professor in Brief

A 'professor' [prəˈfesər] is a highly ranked teacher in a college or university, or an expert in a particular field who often gives lectures or writes books. It is a formal term used to describe someone who has achieved the highest level of academic achievement in their field. The term extends into phrases like 'full professor,' 'assistant professor,' and 'visiting professor,' and idioms like 'ivory tower' and 'publish or perish.'

How do native speakers use this expression?