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.
© Webster 1913.