Professors: meaning, definitions and examples

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professors

[prəˈfɛsərz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in education

Professors are individuals who teach at universities or colleges and conduct research in their field of expertise. They are often experts in their subject matter and are responsible for educating students, conducting research, and publishing academic work.

Synonyms

academic, lecturer, teacher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
professors	Used in higher education institutions like universities to describe individuals who undertake teaching and research responsibilities. Professors are often senior, highly qualified, and experts in their fields. The university hired three new professors in the Computer Science department. Professors often have flexible schedules to accommodate both their research and teaching duties.
lecturer	Often used in universities and colleges to describe individuals who mainly focus on teaching undergraduate students. Lecturers may not have the same research obligations as professors. The lecturer explained the complex theories in a very understandable way. He works as a lecturer in the English department.
academic	Refers to any person involved in academia, which can include professors, researchers, and scholars. It can also describe activities related to education and scholarship. She has had a long career as an academic in the field of Biochemistry. The conference attracted academics from around the world.
teacher	Primarily used for educators in primary and secondary schools, but can also be used more generally for anyone who teaches or instructs. Teachers often handle a variety of subjects and age groups. Our math teacher is very good at making difficult concepts easy to understand. She opted for a career as a high school teacher after graduating.

Examples of usage

Many professors hold advanced degrees in their field.
The professor gave a lecture on quantum physics.
The professor's research was published in a prestigious academic journal.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to claim openly

To profess means to declare openly or claim a particular belief, faith, or opinion. It can also refer to stating one's expertise or skill in a particular subject.

Synonyms

assert, avow, declare.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
professors	This term is most often used in academic settings to refer to university or college teachers who specialize in a particular area of study. The professors at this university are involved in groundbreaking research. She spoke with one of the biology professors to clarify her doubts.
declare	This word is used when someone makes an official or emphatic statement. It is often formal and can be used in legal, diplomatic, or public settings. The president declared a state of emergency after the hurricane. The scientist declared that the experiment was a success.
assert	This word is commonly used when someone states something confidently and forcefully. It often implies that the person is very sure about what they are saying. He continued to assert his innocence throughout the trial. The CEO asserted that the company would not be affected by the market changes.
avow	Often used to publicly state something with a strong commitment or belief. This word can be used in both formal and serious contexts. She avowed her support for the new policy in front of the board. The activist openly avowed his dedication to environmental causes.

Examples of usage

She professed her love for him.
He professed to be an expert in economics.
The politician professed his commitment to environmental protection.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term comes from the Latin 'professus,' meaning to declare openly or to profess, which linked to teaching.
In the Middle Ages, the first universities in Europe established the role of 'professor' as a recognized academic title.
By the 17th century, the title became more formalized, often associated with advanced study and research.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, professors are seen as icons of wisdom and leadership, influencing future generations.
Some societies place great emphasis on professors, often giving them high social status and respect.
In popular media and literature, the character of the professor is often depicted as the sage or mentor guiding younger characters.

Education System

Professors often have a PhD or equivalent degree, showcasing their expertise in a specific subject area.
They are involved in research and contribute to their fields, pushing the boundaries of knowledge.
Many professors also mentor students, advising them on academic and career paths.

Psychology of Teaching

Research shows that professors' engagement and teaching style significantly impact students' learning experiences.
Effective professors often use diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles among students.
The relationship between professors and students can influence students' motivation and success.

Pop Culture

Professors frequently appear in films and television, often portrayed as eccentric geniuses or stern authority figures.
The image of a professor has permeated pop culture, leading to stereotypes such as the absent-minded professor or the strict disciplinarian.
In video games, professors are often key characters that provide knowledge or guidance, like in the Pokémon series.

Translations

Translations of the word "professors" in other languages:

🇵🇹 professores

🇮🇳 प्रोफेसर

🇩🇪 Professoren

🇮🇩 profesor

🇺🇦 професори

🇵🇱 profesorzy

🇯🇵 教授

🇫🇷 professeurs

🇪🇸 profesores

🇹🇷 profesörler

🇰🇷 교수들

🇸🇦 أساتذة

🇨🇿 profesoři

🇸🇰 profesori

🇨🇳 教授

🇸🇮 profesorji

🇮🇸 prófessorar

🇰🇿 профессорлар

🇬🇪 პროფესორები

🇦🇿 professorlar

🇲🇽 profesores

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,563 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6560 rabbit
6561 hint
6562 scientist
6563 professors
6564 celebration
6565 inlet
6566 tending
...