Definition

A person who writes elegies, which are poems or songs that express sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died.

Example

The elegist captured the deep sadness of loss in his beautiful poem.

Conversation

Have you ever read a poem by an elegist?

No, I haven't. What is it about?

It's usually a sad poem that expresses grief or loss, written by an elegist.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to read one sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Elegist → It is formed from "elegy" (from Greek "elegeia", meaning a mournful poem) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). An elegist is someone who composes or is associated with elegies, typically expressing sorrow or lamentation.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who writes mournful poems ('elegy') — that's what an elegist does.

Visually Confused Words