violist

1 of 2

noun (1)

vi·​ol·​ist ˈvī-ə-list How to pronounce violist (audio)
plural violists
Synonyms of violistnext
: a viol player

violist

2 of 2

noun (2)

vi·​o·​list vē-ˈō-list sometimes vī- How to pronounce violist (audio)
plural violists
: a viola player

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

viol entry 2 + -ist

Noun (2)

viola entry 1 + -ist

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1659, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1670, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of violist was in 1659

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Cite this Entry

“Violist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/violist. Accessed 27 Dec. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on violist

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!