Pro*fess"or (?), n. [L., a teacher, a
public teacher: cf. F. professeur. See Profess.]
1. One who professed, or makes open declaration
of, his sentiments or opinions; especially, one who makes a public
avowal of his belief in the Scriptures and his faith in Christ, and
thus unites himself to the visible church. "Professors of
religion." Bacon.
2. One who professed, or publicly teaches, any
science or branch of learning; especially, an officer in a university,
college, or other seminary, whose business it is to read lectures, or
instruct students, in a particular branch of learning; as a
professor of theology, of botany, of mathematics, or of
political economy.
