lyricist

[lir-uh-sist]

noun

1. a person who writes the lyrics for songs.

2. a lyric poet.

lyricist

/ ˈlɪrɪsɪst /

noun

1. a person who writes the words for a song, opera, or musical play

2. Also called: lyrist. a lyric poet

Word History and Origins

Origin of lyricist¹

First recorded in 1880–85; lyric + -ist

Example Sentences

Because Mr. Parker processes his voice so heavily, it’s easy to forget that he’s a distinctive lyricist—his words are resonant even as the arrangements keep one’s ear on the gleaming surfaces.

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Here, there’s only a poignantly egoless transparency, exposing the lyricist’s personal flaws — his drunkenness, his arrogance — while capturing the fragile soulfulness that made those Rodgers and Hart tunes sing.

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In his early 20s the lyricist became partners with the teenage composer Richard Rodgers, and the pair created hundreds of songs, including dozens of classics: “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered,” “Manhattan,” “My Funny Valentine.”

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The drummer and lyricist for beloved Canadian hard-rock trio Rush was widely considered one of rock’s most skilled instrumentalists.

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More astounding, he managed to persuade Sondheim, the show’s lyricist, to regale an awe-struck high school drama club with anecdotes about his missteps.

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Related Words

• composer 
• musician 
• poet 
• songwriter