lay reader

noun

, Anglican Church.

1. a layperson authorized by a bishop to conduct certain parts of a service.

lay reader

noun

1. Church of England a person licensed by a bishop to conduct religious services other than the Eucharist
2. RC Church a layman chosen from among the congregation to read the epistle at Mass and sometimes other prayers

Word History and Origins

Origin of lay reader¹

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

But the historians suggest this was a “literary device” to make the story more exciting and understandable to lay readers.

From Seattle Times

Graeber had mastered the art of pulling new research out of his home field and contextualizing it for the lay reader.

From Los Angeles Times

In the short time since the study was released online, Al-Aly said he has seen lay readers draw misguided conclusions.

From Washington Post

Nothing is clearer than Padilla’s love for his work, which will be particularly inviting to lay readers.

From Scientific American

She spent her Washington years in the suburb of Arlington, Va., where she was among the first female lay readers of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church and helped start a church theater group.

From Washington Post