Arabist

American  

[ar-uh-bist] / ˈær ə bɪst /

noun

1. a person who specializes in or studies the Arabic language or Arab culture.

2. a supporter of Arab interests, especially in international affairs.

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Arabist British  

/ ˈærəbɪst /

noun

1. a student or expert in Arabic culture, language, history, etc

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Etymology

Origin of Arabist

First recorded in 1745–55; Arab + -ist

Example Sentences

Not least, the great British Arabist Robert Irwin provides a detailed essay analyzing the character and origin of the tales that came to us through Diyab.

From Washington Post

It has also served as a springboard to the Arab world for numerous Western scholars and aspiring Arabists.

From New York Times

Later writers, notably Flaubert, kept the work of 17th century Arabists alive deep into the 1800s.

From Economist

Or, Robert Ames, a leading Arabist who cultivated as a source a top Palestinian intelligence officer.

From Washington Post

But by 2015 that kind of cultural immersion, long favored by budding Arabists, was no longer easy.

From New York Times