linguist

noun

lin·​guist ˈliŋ-gwist How to pronounce linguist (audio)
Synonyms of linguistnext
1
: a person accomplished in languages
especially : one who speaks several languages
2
: a person who specializes in linguistics

Examples of linguist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For the handful of Deaf linguists who attend the event, that definition extends beyond spoken language. — New York Times, 22 Oct. 2026 While linguists have been busy trying to understand this trend, political scientists have been measuring how different accents perform on the campaign trail. — Valerie M. Fridland, The Conversation, 20 Oct. 2026 Nhlandla Duba, a linguist from Zimbabwe who researches English literature at the University of Pretoria, said Kundizeza's story rings true. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026 Babbel was developed by more than 100 expert linguists, with material available for beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners. — Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 30 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for linguist

Word History

Etymology

probably borrowed from New Latin linguista, from Latin lingua "tongue, speech, language" + -ista -ist entry 1 — more at tongue entry 1

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of linguist was in 1591

Browse Nearby Words

linguipotence
linguist
linguister
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Linguist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/linguist. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

linguist

noun
lin·​guist ˈliŋ-gwəst How to pronounce linguist (audio)
1
: a person skilled in languages
2
: a person who specializes in linguistics

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