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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It would later be covered by Connie Francis, Peggy Lee, and instrumentalist Joe Harnell. David Morgan, CBS News, 14 May 2026 Bassist Chris Squire and drummer Alan White, the remaining instrumentalists from Yes’ classic ’70s era, contributed little more than scaffolding beneath Horn’s whizbangs. Andy Cush, Pitchfork, 9 May 2026 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 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 21 May. 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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