Docent

/ˈdoʊ.sənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A knowledgeable guide or lecturer, often in a museum or educational institution.
The docent provided an insightful tour of the art gallery, explaining the history behind each piece.
A university teacher or lecturer, typically engaged in research and teaching.
As a docent in the biology department, she focused on mentoring undergraduate students in research projects.
A person who teaches or lectures in a specific field informally.
The docent at the historical site shared fascinating anecdotes about the town's past.

Etymology

From Latin 'docent-', the present participle of 'docere' meaning to teach.

Common Phrases and Expressions

museum docent
A person who provides educational tours in a museum context.
docent-led tour
A guided visit conducted by a docent.

Related Words

educator
A person who provides instruction or education.
curator
A keeper or custodian of a museum or other collection.
tutor
A person who provides individual instruction.

Slang Meanings