precentor

noun

pre·​cen·​tor pri-ˈsen-tər 

: a leader of the singing of a choir or congregation

precentorial

ˌprē-ˌsen-ˈtȯr-ē-əl 

adjective

precentorship

pri-ˈsen-tər-ˌship 

noun

Did you know?

The history of "precentor" leads to the Latin verb praecinere, meaning "to lead in singing," which was formed by adding the "prae-" prefix to the verb "canere" ("to sing"). "Canere" is also an ancestor of the English word chant, as well as the source of the Latin noun cantor, which was also borrowed into English and is used both as a synonym of "precentor" and for an individual in a synagogue who sings or chants the liturgical music and leads the congregation in prayer.

Examples of precentor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Along with the rest of the staff, these musicians continue to be paid, says Scott Dettra, precentor and director of music at the church. —Tim Diovanni, Dallas News, 6 Apr. 2020

Word History

Etymology

Latin praecentor, from praecinere to lead in singing, from prae- + canere to sing — more at chant

First Known Use

1516, in the meaning defined above

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