impressionist

noun

im·​pres·​sion·​ist im-ˈpre-sh(ə-)nist How to pronounce impressionist (audio)
1
often capitalized : someone (such as a painter) who practices or adheres to the theories of impressionism
2
: an entertainer who does impressions

Examples of impressionist in a Sentence

a celebrated impressionist who can do enough rapid-fire imitations to populate an entire stage with characters
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In last night’s cold open, the SNL cast member James Austin Johnson, the show’s resident Donald Trump impressionist, responded to the dig. Esther Zuckerman, The Atlantic, 6 Apr. 2025 While Steve Martin didn’t change his mind about not being an impressionist, Gaffigan embraces his Kirkland attire, setting the stage for some more friends to kick off the season. Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 29 Sep. 2024 Sheen is a master impressionist, having portrayed a succession of public figures – including former Prime Minister Tony Blair, broadcaster David Frost and gameshow host Chris Tarrant – on screen with accuracy and humanity. K.j. Yossman, Variety, 19 Sep. 2024 During a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, several SNL veterans reflected on how celebrities reacted to their impressionists on the show. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impressionist

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of impressionist was in 1874

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Cite this Entry

“Impressionist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impressionist. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

impressionist

noun
im·​pres·​sion·​ist im-ˈpresh-(ə-)nəst How to pronounce impressionist (audio)
1
often capitalized : a person (as a painter) who practices impressionism
2
: an entertainer who does impressions

More from Merriam-Webster on impressionist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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