instrumentalist

noun

in·​stru·​men·​tal·​ist ˌin(t)-strə-ˈmen-tᵊl-ist How to pronounce instrumentalist (audio)
Synonyms of instrumentalistnext
1
: a player on a musical instrument
2
: an exponent of instrumentalism
instrumentalist adjective

Examples of instrumentalist in a Sentence

he excels as a conductor, a composer, and as an instrumentalist
Recent Examples on the Web
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Community members of all ages are invited to participate as soloists, duets, small groups or instrumentalists. Ramona Sentinel, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 The latter features performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, instrumentalists and other creators actively working in the recording industry. Kaycee Sloan, Cincinnati Enquirer, 1 Feb. 2026 Among thrash metal’s Big Four, which includes Metallica, Megadeth Slayer, and Anthrax, Megadeth have always stood out for having superb instrumentalists throughout its career. Quentin Thane Singer, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026 The nonprofit's competitions are open to junior, intermediate and advanced levels for instrumentalists, vocalists, duets and chamber ensembles. Beth Reese Cravey, Florida Times-Union, 20 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for instrumentalist

Word History

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of instrumentalist was in 1814

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Cite this Entry

“Instrumentalist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/instrumentalist. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

instrumentalist

noun
in·​stru·​men·​tal·​ist ˌin(t)-strə-ˈment-ᵊl-əst How to pronounce instrumentalist (audio)
: a person who plays a musical instrument

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