1. a person who is skilled in the use of words or who places excessive emphasis on words rather than meaning or substance
2. a person who interprets something in a strictly literal way, especially legal or religious texts
Usage: formal

Examples

• The critic dismissed the author as a mere verbalist who prioritized style over substance.
• As a skilled verbalist, she could craft persuasive arguments on any topic.
• The judge was known as a verbalist who interpreted laws according to their exact wording.
• His reputation as a verbalist made him popular at poetry readings.
• The professor warned against being a verbalist when analyzing literature.
• She accused her opponent of being a verbalist who twisted words to avoid real issues.