Instrumentalist: meaning, definitions and examples

🎵
Add to dictionary

instrumentalist

 

[ ɪnˈstrʌməntəlɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

musician

A person who plays a musical instrument, especially as a profession. They are skilled in playing one or more musical instruments and often perform in orchestras, bands, or solo concerts.

Synonyms

musician, performer, player.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
instrumentalist

Used to describe someone who primarily plays a musical instrument, especially in a formal or professional setting. It usually implies a certain level of skill and training.

  • 'The orchestra was full of talented instrumentalists
  • ' 'As an instrumentalist, he spent years mastering the violin
  • '
musician

Refers to anyone who performs music, whether through singing, playing instruments, or composing. It's a broad term that can apply to both amateurs and professionals.

  • 'She has been a musician since she was a child
  • ' 'Many musicians gathered for the jam session
  • '
player

Commonly used to refer to someone who plays a musical instrument. It implies a focus on playing rather than on other musical skills like composing or singing.

  • 'He's an excellent piano player
  • ' 'The guitar player tuned his instrument before the show
  • '
performer

A general term for anyone who performs in front of an audience, not limited to music. This can include actors, dancers, and magicians.

  • 'The performer captivated the audience with his act
  • ' 'As a performer, she travels all over the world
  • '

Examples of usage

  • He is a talented instrumentalist who can play the piano, guitar, and violin.
  • The instrumentalist captivated the audience with his flawless performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "instrumentalist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 instrumentista

🇮🇳 वादक

🇩🇪 Instrumentalist

🇮🇩 instrumentalis

🇺🇦 інструменталіст

🇵🇱 instrumentalista

🇯🇵 楽器奏者 (がっきそうしゃ)

🇫🇷 instrumentiste

🇪🇸 instrumentista

🇹🇷 enstrümantalist

🇰🇷 악기 연주자 (akgi yeonjuja)

🇸🇦 عازف

🇨🇿 instrumentalista

🇸🇰 inštrumentalista

🇨🇳 乐器演奏者 (yuèqì yǎnzòu zhě)

🇸🇮 instrumentalist

🇮🇸 hljóðfæraleikari

🇰🇿 аспапшы

🇬🇪 ინსტრუმენტალისტი

🇦🇿 alətçi

🇲🇽 instrumentista

Etymology

The term 'instrumentalist' originated in the 18th century, derived from the word 'instrumental,' which comes from the Latin word 'instrumentum,' meaning 'tool' or 'implement.' Initially used in the context of music, it evolved to refer to a skilled musician proficient in playing musical instruments.

See also: instrument, instrumental, instrumentation, instruments.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,594 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.