Gr. Antiq. Also in L. form theorus. [mod. ad. Gr. θεωρ-ός spectator, one who travels in order to see things, also an envoy, ambassador: see THEORY2.] An ambassador or envoy sent on behalf of a state, esp. to consult an oracle or perform a religious rite. (Cf. THEORY2.)
1847. Grote, Greece, II. ix. III. 37. The Theors or sacred envoys … appeared with ostentatious pomp. Ibid. (1849), II. lv. VII. 73. The tent which the Athenian theôrs provided for their countrymen visitors to the games.
1873. Symonds, Grk. Poets, iii. 90. He went as a Theorus to the shrine of Delphi.
