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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

cyclist

SEYE-klihst

Cyclist (noun) means a person who rides a bicycle, either regularly or as a sport. Example: “The cyclist signalled before turning left at the junction.”

noun
1
A person who rides a bicycle, either regularly or as a sport.
"The cyclist signalled before turning left at the junction."
"Professional cyclists train for hours every day."

How to use cyclist

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who rides a bicycle.

Common pairings
professional cyclist commuter cyclist

Word forms

cyclists plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ signalled before turning left at the junction.

Etymology

Formed from cycle plus the agent suffix -ist, first recorded around 1882.

· First attested 1882

Class of 1882 cyclist joined the language around 1882.
See the full Class of 1882 →
biker rider bicyclist

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “cyclist” mean?

The word “cyclist” means a person who rides a bicycle, either regularly or as a sport. In plain terms, someone who rides a bicycle.

How do you pronounce “cyclist”?

“Cyclist” is pronounced SEYE-klihst (/ˈsaɪ.klɪst/ in IPA).

How do you use “cyclist” in a sentence?

Here is “cyclist” used in a sentence: “The cyclist signalled before turning left at the junction.”

What part of speech is “cyclist”?

“Cyclist” is a noun.

Where does the word “cyclist” come from?

The word “cyclist” dates back to around 1882. Formed from cycle plus the agent suffix -ist, first recorded around 1882.

Is “cyclist” a common word?

“Cyclist” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

What is the difference between a cyclist and a biker?

Cyclist specifically refers to someone who rides a bicycle, while biker is often used informally for motorcycle riders as well as bicycle riders, depending on the region and context. In British English, biker usually implies a motorcycle, so cyclist is the clearer term for someone on a bicycle.

Does cyclist only refer to competitive riders?

No, cyclist refers to anyone who rides a bicycle, whether regularly for transportation or as a competitive sport. The word covers everyday commuters as well as professional racers.

Is cyclist used for both casual and professional riders?

Yes, cyclist applies broadly to anyone who rides a bicycle, from a casual weekend rider to a professional athlete competing in races. Context, such as "recreational cyclist" or "professional cyclist," usually clarifies which is meant.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial