lector

noun

lec·​tor ˈlek-tər How to pronounce lector (audio)
-ˌtȯr
: a person who assists at a worship service chiefly by reading the lection

Examples of lector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Pope Francis, though, changed canon law to allow women to serve as acolytes and lectors — laypeople who perform functions such as setting up the altar and reading the Bible. John Blake, CNN, 15 July 2024 There were efforts to organize fake lectors, which are being litigated and criminal charges have been brought in many states. CBS News, 26 May 2024 Caveat lector: Failing to peruse this list of July releases may result in a severe deficit of variety in your vacation reading. Bethanne Patrick, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2023 While continuing to affirm that women cannot be priests, the move was a gamechanger for women in dioceses that had adhered strictly to previous wording regarding acolyte and lector positions and barred women from such roles. Marc Ramirez, USA TODAY, 28 Apr. 2023 See All Example Sentences for lector

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Late Latin, reader of the lessons in a church service, from Latin, reader, from legere

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lector was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Lector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lector. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

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