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Hobbyist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hobbyist

[หˆhษ’biษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

person who pursues a particular hobby

A hobbyist is someone who engages in a particular activity for pleasure rather than as a profession. They often have a deep passion for their hobby and enjoy spending their free time pursuing it.

Synonyms

aficionado, amateur, enthusiast.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hobbyist

This word is appropriate for someone who is involved in a particular activity purely for pleasure and not professionally. It emphasizes the casual, leisurely nature of the involvement.

  • He's a hobbyist photographer who enjoys taking nature shots on weekends.
  • Many hobbyist gardeners share tips and tricks in online forums.
enthusiast

This term is suitable for someone who is very interested and excited about a particular activity or subject. It focuses on the person's passion, and can be used in both casual and more earnest contexts.

  • She's a car enthusiast who spends weekends at car shows.
  • Many technology enthusiasts eagerly await the latest gadget releases.
amateur

Use this word to describe someone who engages in an activity without professional skill or training. It often contrasts with 'professional', and can sometimes carry a mildly negative connotation, implying a lack of expertise.

  • Though he's an amateur painter, his works are surprisingly good.
  • The amateur swimmers competed in a friendly race.
aficionado

This word fits when referring to someone who is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about a particular subject. It often implies a higher level of expertise and passion than just a casual interest.

  • She's an aficionado of classical music and attends every concert in the city.
  • Wine aficionados can distinguish even the subtlest differences in flavor.

Examples of usage

  • The stamp collector was a dedicated hobbyist who spent hours organizing his collection.
  • As a photography hobbyist, she loved capturing beautiful moments with her camera.
  • The woodworking hobbyist enjoyed crafting unique pieces in his workshop.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culture and Society

  • Hobbies can differ greatly across cultures; for example, traditional Japanese arts like origami and calligraphy are popular pastimes.
  • In the 21st century, hobbies have expanded online, leading to virtual communities for enthusiasts of video games, knitting, and more.

Psychology

  • Engaging in hobbies has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being, providing a creative outlet.
  • People who dedicate time to their hobbies often report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Technology

  • The rise of social media platforms has allowed hobbyists to share their interests and connect with others across the globe.
  • Hobbyist communities have driven innovations in tech, such as DIY electronics and 3D printing, empowering individuals to create.

Education

  • Many educational institutions now offer extracurricular activities to support student hobbies, recognizing their importance in personal development.
  • Hobbies can serve as a practical method for acquiring skills such as teamwork, time management, and critical thinking.

Origin of 'hobbyist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hobby' comes from the late Middle Ages, referring to a small horse or pony, which was a favorite leisure activity.
  • The term 'hobbyist' emerged in the early 20th century, reflecting the growing popularity of personal pastimes.

The term 'hobbyist' originated in the 19th century, derived from the word 'hobby,' which referred to a small horse or pony. Over time, 'hobby' came to represent a favorite pastime or activity pursued for pleasure. The addition of the suffix '-ist' denotes a person who engages in a particular activity, leading to the term 'hobbyist.' Hobbyists play an important role in various fields, contributing their passion and creativity to their chosen hobbies.

See also: hobbies, hobby.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,683 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.