Definition

Noun: A professor of the highest academic rank at a university or college, typically above the rank of associate professor. This title is usually awarded after significant scholarly achievement, such as a substantial record of research, publication, and teaching.

Usage

The term "full professor" is used to denote the senior-most rank in the academic professoriate. It is a formal title. - She was promoted to full professor after publishing her second book. - The department has three full professors who lead the research group.

Advanced Usage

• The title is often used in contrast to lower ranks like "assistant professor" or "associate professor."
• In some contexts, the word "professor" alone can informally refer to a full professor, but "full professor" specifies the rank unambiguously.
  • He is not just an associate professor; he is a full professor.

Variants and Related Words

• Professor (noun): A teacher of the highest rank in a college or university. (This is the general term; "full professor" is a specific rank within this category.)
• Associate Professor (noun): A mid-level professor ranking below a full professor.
• Assistant Professor (noun): An entry-level professor ranking below an associate professor.

Synonyms

• Senior Professor (less common, but conveys similar seniority)
• Chair Professor (in some systems, this can denote a similar or even higher endowed position)

Different Meanings

The term "full professor" does not have other common, distinct meanings. It specifically refers to the academic rank. It is not used as an adjective or verb.

Notes

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with the term "full professor." It is a formal compound noun used primarily in academic and professional contexts.

Noun

1. a professor of the highest rank