medalist
medalist Lexical Profile
medalist Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American A person who has been awarded a medal for a notable achievement, especially in an athletic competition, academic contest, or military service.
"The Olympic gold medalist was invited to speak to the students about dedication and perseverance."
American In stroke-play golf, the player who achieves the lowest qualifying score in a tournament.
"She finished the two qualifying rounds at four under par to claim honors as the tournament medalist."
American An artist, craftsman, or engraver who designs and makes medals, medallions, or coins.
"The museum features a rare collection of bronze portraits cast by a renowned Renaissance medalist."
Word Nuance & Usage
Spelled "medalist" in American English and "medallist" in British and Commonwealth English.
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 17th century from French médailliste or Italian medaglista, from medaglia ("medal"), ultimately tracing back to Late Latin medalia, a small coin.