noun

rector

REK-ter/ˈrektər/

The head of a church or educational institution.

The rector holds a prayer book and welcomes a parishioner.

Parish rector welcomes parishioner at small church doorway fragment while holding plain prayer book; small cross on door identifies clergy role, no signage or elaborate nave.

Etymology

A rector is literally someone who rules or guides. The title narrowed from rulers generally to heads of religious communities and colleges, including clergy in charge of parishes; its exact religious scope varies.

In context

Storytime Haven46:25

Dr. Stalling should immediately summon her up front again. She would have to go, of course—it never occurred to her that one could disobey the rector—and the church was full of people now.

📖 The Blue Castle by L. M. Montgomery | A Tale of Love & Freedom 💙✨

More examples

Our rector leads worship every Sunday.
The university's rector announces a new scholarship program.
Parents meet with the school's rector to discuss tuition.

Forms

rector · rectors

rectory noun — A house provided for a parish priest.

Similar words

pastor: Usually leads a congregation, not a school or university.
president: Heads many American universities but does not ordinarily lead parishes.
principal: Usually heads a school rather than a university or parish.