What does the suffix -ist mean?

Answer 1

The suffix -ist indicates a person involved in the activity or field (e.g. scientist works in science).

The suffix is added to the root of a verb or noun form such as -ism, -ize or -ing.

Examples :

Someone who does cycling = cyclist

Someone who apologizes = apologist

Someone involved with feminism = feminist
The suffix "ist" means "one who does."

Florist, pianist, dentist, for example.

It can also be used to show beliefs and principles.

Hedonist, sexist, etcetera.

Answer 2

The suffix "ist" means:

• one who performs a (specified) action or one who makes or produces a (specified) thing (for example novelist)

• one who plays a (specified) musical instrument (for example pianist)

• one who operates a (specified) mechanical instrument or contrivance (for example automobilist)

• one who specializes in a (specified) art or science or skill (for example geologist)

• one who adheres to or advocates a (specified) doctrine or system or code of behavior (for example socialist)