Reader \Read"er\, n. [AS. r[=ae]dere.]

1. One who reads. Specifically:
   (a) One whose distinctive office is to read prayers in a church.
   (b) (University of Oxford, Eng.) One who reads lectures on scientific subjects. --Lyell.
   (c) A proof reader.
   (d) One who reads manuscripts offered for publication and advises regarding their merit.

2. One who reads much; one who is studious.

3. A book containing a selection of extracts for exercises in reading; an elementary book for practice in a language; a reading book.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)