essayist
UK: ˈɛseɪɪst | US: ˈɛseɪɪst
n. a writer of essays, especially as a profession or regular practice
The word "essayist" combines "essay," derived from the French "essai" (meaning "attempt" or "trial"), and the suffix "-ist," indicating a person who practices or specializes in something. The French "essai" itself traces back to the Latin "exagium" (a weighing or testing). The term "essay" was popularized by Michel de Montaigne in the 16th century for his reflective prose pieces, and "-ist" (from Greek "-istes") became a productive suffix in English to denote practitioners of various arts or sciences. Thus, an "essayist" is literally "one who writes essays."
George Orwell is celebrated not only as a novelist but also as a brilliant essayist.
The essayist’s sharp wit and insightful observations made her columns widely read.
Modern essayists often blend personal narrative with cultural criticism.
As an essayist, he explored themes of identity and belonging in his work.
The anthology features contributions from prominent essayists of the 20th century.