Pronunciation: [ɹˈɛktə] (IPA) 
The word "rector" is spelled with the letters R-E-C-T-O-R. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈrɛktər/. The first syllable is a short "e" sound, followed by a hard "k" sound, and then the short "o" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a soft "t" and an "er" sound. This word is commonly used to refer to the head of a university or a church, similar to the position of a principal or pastor.
A rector is an authoritative figure who holds a position of leadership or supervision in a religious institution, typically in the Christian context. The term is commonly used in Anglican, Episcopal, and other Protestant churches.
Etymologically, the word "rector" derives from the Latin term "rector," which means a ruler or director. Within the church hierarchy, the rector usually presides over a parish or congregation, assuming responsibilities that include leading worship services, conducting religious ceremonies, and providing pastoral care to members of the church community.
The rector is often seen as the spiritual leader of the parish, guiding and nurturing the faith of the congregants. They may deliver sermons, administer sacraments, and provide counseling or support during significant life events such as marriages and funerals. Additionally, rectors often oversee the management and administration of the church, including financial matters and the supervision of other clergy or staff members.
Ultimately, the role of a rector can vary depending on denominational traditions and local customs. Some rectors may serve multiple churches (parishes), while others may focus on a single congregation. Their primary objective is to foster a sense of unity and spiritual growth within the religious community, promoting the teachings and beliefs of their denomination while tending to the pastoral needs of the individuals they serve.
In the Ch. of Eng., a clergyman of a parish who receives the large and small tithes, or the clergyman of a parish where the tithes are not impropriate; in Scot., the head-master of a higher-class school; the head of a convent or religious house.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "rector" has Latin origins. It comes from the Latin word "rēctor", which means "director" or "governor". The term rēctor was derived from the verb "regere", meaning "to rule" or "to govern". In ancient Rome, a rector was someone who was in charge of directing or leading a group or organization. Over time, the term "rector" has been adopted by various languages to refer to a position of leadership or authority, particularly in educational or religious settings.
