1. a person who reads aloud to others, especially in a formal or academic setting
Usage: archaic; chiefly British
2. in some universities, a senior member of staff who gives lectures or leads seminars
Usage: archaic; academic

Examples

• The prelector stood at the podium and read passages from the classical text.
• In medieval universities, the prelector was responsible for expounding on authoritative texts.
• The prelector's role has largely been replaced by the modern lecturer.
• Students gathered to hear the prelector deliver his weekly discourse.
• As a prelector, he was expected to prepare his readings with great care.