pianist

noun

pi·​a·​nist pē-ˈa-nist How to pronounce pianist (audio) ˈpē-ə- How to pronounce pianist (audio)
Synonyms of pianistnext
: a person who plays the piano
especially : a skilled or professional performer on the piano

Examples of pianist in a Sentence

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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.
This time, though, Bing Wang (associate concertmaster), Robert deMaine (principal cello) and Joanne Pearce Martin (the orchestra’s pianist) have long been playing together in the orchestra, as well as in chamber music settings. — Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 The track featured such pros as guitarist Jeff Baxter, pianist Larry Knechtel and trumpeter Jerry Hey. — Paul Grein, Billboard, 27 Aug. 2026 The real-life jazz quartet from Gelber’s play—headlined by the saxophonist Jackie McLean and the pianist Freddie Redd—performed at length on camera. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2026 One of the most respected and influential jazz pianists of his generation, Mehldau is best known for leading a celebrated trio. — Andrew Gilbert, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pianist

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pianist was in 1817

Rhymes for pianist

See All Rhymes for pianist

Browse Nearby Words

pianissimo
pianist
pianiste
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pianist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pianist. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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