A person who makes open declaration of his or her feelings or beliefs, or of allegiance to some principle; one who professes (sometimes opposed…

Theology. A person who believes in a god or the doctrines of a religion; esp. a Christian. Sometimes… Without construction.

A person who gives credence to something, a believer. Obsolete.

A female creditor. Also in figurative contexts. Cf. creditress, n.

One who sets forth (in various senses); one who promulgates an opinion, who equips an expedition, etc.