noun
harpist
HAHR-pist/ˈhɑːrpɪst/
A musician who plays the harp.
The harpist plucks the strings gently during the wedding ceremony.
Etymology
The instrument name combines with an ending for someone who performs an activity. Here that activity is playing: a harpist is the musician, rather than the maker of the instrument.
In context
I meet the harpist. I didn't know who it was, but I saw the harp. I'm like, "You must be the harpist." and we're trying to communicate. She gives me the music.
More examples
- Our orchestra needs a harpist for its next concert.
- Two harpists perform a duet at the music festival.
- The harpist adjusts a pedal with her foot.
Forms
harpist · harpists
harp noun — A stringed instrument played by plucking.
Similar words
- musician
- A broader term covering singers and players of any instrument.