humorist
Americannoun
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a person who is skillful in the use of humor, as in writing, talking, or acting.
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a person with an active sense of humor.
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of humorist
First recorded in 1580–1590; from French humoriste “capricious person,” equivalent to humour (from English ) + -iste noun suffix; see origin at humor ( def. ), -ist; compare Italian (h)umorista “capricious, subject to humors”
Explanation
A humorist is a writer or speaker who tells stories about funny situations or experiences. Mark Twain was a famous American humorist. Being a humorist has a little in common with being a comedian, but they're not exactly the same. A humorist is a serious writer (or speaker) who uses humor to make a point or help readers see what's funny about specific situations or life in general. Comedians, on the other hand, are performers who tell jokes that are meant to make you burst out laughing immediately.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
No dichotomy better represents Berlant’s razor-sharp, thoroughly tasteful wit, which sits halfway between refined humorist and go-for-broke court jester.
From Salon ● Oct. 16, 2026
A good documentarian assembles snippets and shards to create something that illuminates reality, whereas a good humorist distorts or reframes reality.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 15, 2026
He started his career as a vaudeville performer and was a famed humorist.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 8, 2025
Andrew Boyd, a humorist and one of the activists behind the Climate Clock in Union Square, believes that laughter can help those who feel despair over global warming.
From New York Times ● Feb. 9, 2024
It was the cantankerous, curmudgeonly talk show humorist Jean Shepherd who entranced him.
From "Endgame" by Frank Brady
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