evangelist

UK: ɪˈvændʒəlɪst | US: ɪˈvændʒəlɪst

Definition
  1. n. 1. A preacher of the Christian gospel, especially one who travels to spread religious teachings.

  2. n. 2. A zealous advocate or promoter of a particular cause or idea.

Structure
evangel <gospel>ist <agent suffix>evangel <gospel>eu <good>angel <message>ist <agent suffix>
Etymology

The word traces back to Greek euangelos ("bringing good news"), combining eu- (good) and angelos (messenger). In early Christianity, it referred to the four Gospel writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John). By the 16th century, it broadened to include passionate advocates of any cause, reflecting the idea of spreading a transformative message.

Examples
  1. The evangelist traveled across the country to share his faith.

  2. She became an evangelist for renewable energy, urging policymakers to act.

  3. The book’s author is an evangelist for minimalist living.

  4. Early Christian evangelists played a key role in spreading the religion.

  5. Tech evangelists often promote new innovations at conferences.