preceptor
|pre-cep-tor|
🇺🇸
/prɪˈsɛptər/
🇬🇧
/prɪˈsɛptə/
one who teaches or gives instruction
Etymology
'preceptor' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'praeceptor', where 'praecept-' comes from 'praecipere' meaning 'to instruct' (from 'prae-' meaning 'before' and root related to 'capere' meaning 'to take').
'preceptor' passed from Latin 'praeceptor' into Medieval Latin/Old French forms (e.g. Old French 'precepteur') and was adopted into Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'preceptor'.
Initially, it meant 'one who gives precepts or instructions'; over time it evolved into the current senses of 'teacher, instructor' and specialized senses such as a clinical supervisor or the head of a preceptory.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a teacher or instructor, especially a private tutor or someone who gives instruction in a specific subject.
The university appointed a preceptor to lead the advanced seminar.
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Noun 2
a clinical supervisor or experienced practitioner who mentors and trains medical, nursing, or other healthcare students during practical placements.
During her residency, she relied heavily on her preceptor for practical advice.
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Noun 3
an officer or head of a preceptory (historically, a local administrative house of certain religious or chivalric orders); a commander in some orders.
He served as the preceptor of the local preceptory during the 12th century reenactment.
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Last updated: 2026/01/13 12:13