English Reference
Noun

vocalist

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈvoʊkəɫɪst/ UK /vˈəʊkəlˌɪst/ vo·cal·ist UK spelling vocalists

n.a person who sings, especially as a professional performer in a band or musical group.

n.a singer, particularly one who performs in a professional or formal musical context. Often used to distinguish the singer from the instrumentalists in a group.


SIMPLE

The band is looking for a new lead vocalist.

CONTEXTUAL

The jazz quartet features a talented vocalist who also plays the trumpet during instrumental breaks.

COMPLEX

Critics noted that while the band's technical proficiency was undeniable, it was the guest vocalist's haunting range that truly elevated the album's emotional resonance.

Usage

Often paired with 'lead' or 'backing' to specify the performer's role within a musical ensemble.


From vocal + -ist.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated