professor

word

/pɹəˈfɛsɝ/
pruh-FES-ur
/pɹəfˈɛsɐ/
pruh-FES-uh

Definition

A professor is a teacher at a college or university, usually an expert in a subject who does both research and teaching.

Usage & Nuances

In the US and UK, a 'professor' is specifically a university-level teacher, not used for school teachers. In some countries, 'professor' can mean any teacher, but in English it's only for higher education. Common collocations: 'assistant professor', 'associate professor', 'full professor.'

Example Sentences

My professor teaches biology at the university.

basic

The professor gave us a lot of homework.

basic

I stayed after class to ask the professor about the exam.

natural

Our professor is very friendly and helpful.

basic

Do you know if the professor posted the grades yet?

natural

The guest professor gave a fascinating talk about climate change.

natural