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DictionarydocentMuseum guide
noun

docent

DOH-sunt/ˈdəʊsnt/

A person who teaches by explaining a subject.

The docent explains the ancient ceramic vessel to an attentive museum visitor.

A museum docent explains an ancient ceramic vessel in a display case to an attentive visitor, using an open-handed gesture toward the exhibit.
Etymology
docLatinto show, teach
+entLatinpresent participle ending

The Latin pieces form a participle meaning “teaching,” which underlies the noun meaning “teacher.” A museum, gallery, or zoo docent fills that teaching role by guiding visitors’ understanding.

In context

WTTW0:36
I'm Geoffrey Baer and I've been giving boat tours of the Chicago river since 1988 as a docent for the Chicago Architecture Foundation.
The Chicago River Tour with Geoffrey Baer

More examples

  • Our docent answers questions about the fossils on display.
  • Two volunteer docents lead school groups through the science exhibits.
  • A university docent gives a lecture on ancient history.

Forms

docent · docents

Similar words

guide
Emphasizes leading visitors rather than teaching them about a subject.
lecturer
Usually teaches through formal talks rather than guided tours.
teacher
Broader term, often involving regular classes and ongoing instruction.