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Definition of rectory

rectory

/ˈɹɛktəɹi/
rec · to · ry
Plural:rectories
•
Adjective:rectorial
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rectory Lexical Profile

rectory Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The official residence provided by a church for a rector or parish priest.

Example

"After the Sunday morning service, the parishioners gathered in the garden behind the old stone rectory for tea."

2

A church benefice or parish held by a rector, along with all its associated lands, tithes, and revenues.

Example

"Historical diocesan records detailed the annual agricultural tithes belonging to the rural rectory."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for rectory

• Rhymes for rectory

• Nearby Words

rectify
rector
rectorate
rectory
rectum
recuperate
recuperation

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Medieval Latin rectoria ('office or residence of a rector'), derived from Latin rector ('ruler, director'), from regere ('to rule or guide').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rectory. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 3, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rectory
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