# bassist

/ˈbeɪsɪst/ (US) · /bˈeɪsɪst/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bassist
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a musician who plays the bass guitar or the double bass. You usually find them in the background of a band providing the deep, low notes.

For teachers: a musician who performs on a bass instrument, typically a bass guitar or a double bass. Often serves as the rhythmic and harmonic foundation within an ensemble.

## Examples

- The bassist played a deep, steady rhythm.
- After the lead guitarist finished his solo, the bassist took over with a funky, low-pitched melody.
- While the drummer maintains the tempo, the bassist bridges the gap between rhythm and melody, ensuring the harmonic structure of the song remains cohesive during live performances.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.