paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al ˌper-ə-prə-ˈfesh-nəl 

-ˈfe-shə-nᵊl, 

ˌpa-rə-

: a trained aide who assists a professional person (such as a teacher or doctor)

paraprofessional adjective

Examples of paraprofessional in a Sentence

There is at least one paraprofessional in each classroom.

Recent Examples on the Web

Jackson started working for the city Department of Education as a paraprofessional in 2008 and served as the director of the after-school program at Brooklyn New School from 2016 to 2024, prosecutors said. — Christine Pelisek, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026

Rolon worked as a paraprofessional at PS 373R, located in Tompkinsville. — Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 26 June 2026

From bus drivers and cafeteria workers to counselors, coaches, custodians, paraprofessionals and district staff, every employee plays an important role in helping students succeed. — Howard Hepburn, Sun Sentinel, 27 May 2026

Bringing in more volunteers, paraprofessionals, and community partners can provide the extra attention students need. — Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for paraprofessional

• interprofessional
• semiprofessional
• compressional
• concessional
• confessional
• congressional
• obsessional
• processional
• professional
• recessional
• successional
• nonprofessional

Kids Definition

paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al ˌpar-ə-prə-ˈfesh-nəl 

-ən-ᵊl

: a person trained to assist a professional person (as a teacher or doctor)

paraprofessional adjective

Medical Definition

paraprofessional

noun

para·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al -prə-ˈfesh-nəl, -ən-ᵊl 

: a trained aide who assists a professional person (as a doctor)

paraprofessional adjective