Definition of: professor

(prə·fes′ər) noun
1. A teacher of the highest grade in a university or college, or in an institution where professional or technical studies are pursued; usually, an officer holding a chair in some particular branch of higher instruction.
2. One who professes skill and offers instruction in some sport or art: a professor of gymnastics.
3. One who makes open declaration of his opinions or sentiments; specifically, one who avows a religious faith. [<L, a public teacher <professus. See PROFESS.]