typist

IPA/ˈtaɪpɪst/
IPA/ˈtaɪpɪst/

typist — noun

  • typistsingular
  • typistsplural

1. a reference to the speed or precision with which a specific person utilizes a ke

1.nounB1
Definition

a reference to the speed or precision with which a specific person utilizes a keyboard

Example

Gabriela is an incredibly fast typist because she practiced daily throughout her college years.

collocation: fast typist

As a rather clumsy typist, he frequently makes spelling errors while drafting long academic reports.

Common collocations
  • fast typist
  • slow typist
  • accurate typist
  • touch typist
Synonyms
  • keyboarder

    More technical or descriptive of the action of using keys.

  • data entry operator

    Focuses specifically on inputting information into a computer system.

Usage Note

Typically used with adjectives describing speed (fast/slow) or accuracy (accurate/careless).

Common Mistakes

Confusing 'typist' with 'typewriter', which is the machine used for typing.

2. an individual employed to transcribe spoken information or draft documents using

2.nounB1
Definition

an individual employed to transcribe spoken information or draft documents using a keyboard

Example

The law firm hired a full-time typist to process all the handwritten legal documents.

collocation: hire a typist

Before the invention of modern computers, every busy office relied on a skilled typist.

Common collocations
  • professional typist
  • legal typist
  • hire a typist
Synonyms
  • secretary

    Broader term involving administrative duties beyond just typing.

  • clerk

    Often used for office workers managing records, sometimes involving typing.

Usage Note

Refers specifically to a professional role; usually implies a clerical position focused on data entry or transcription.

Common Mistakes

Using 'typist' for someone who only uses a keyboard for personal emails or casual social media.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/2

These terms describe office roles that involve typing. 'Typist' is specific to the physical act of inputting text. 'Secretary' implies a much wider range of responsibilities including scheduling and communication. 'Clerk' is the most general term for someone handling administrative record-keeping, of which typing is only a minor component.

typist ↗secretary ↗clerk ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Verbs

Phrases

  • typing speed
  • keyboard skills

Adjectives

Etymology

GreekFrenchEnglish

Derived from the verb 'type' (from Greek 'typos', meaning 'impression' or 'mark'), combined with the suffix '-ist' which indicates a person who performs a specific activity or profession. It reflects the era when people used mechanical typewriters to create impressions of letters on paper.

First known use

1885