1. a person who writes hymns
2. a person who sings hymns or is devoted to hymn singing
Usage: less common than sense 1

Examples

• Isaac Watts was a celebrated hymnist of the 18th century.
• The hymnist composed over 200 religious songs during her lifetime.
• Many early American hymnists drew inspiration from Protestant theology.
• He became known as a talented hymnist after publishing his first collection.
• The church honored the hymnist for her contributions to congregational music.