etymologist

[Eng. etymolog (y); -ist; Fr. étymologiste.] One versed in etymology; one who studies the derivations and sources of words. "Our etymologists seem to have been too lavish of their learning."-Johnson: Plan of English Dictionary. ět-ý-mol-o-gize, *eth-i-mol-o-gise, v. t. & i. [Eng. etymolog (y); -ize; Fr. étymologiser.] *A. Trans.: To examine into the etymology or derivation of; to trace the etymology of. "Phæ, Breeches, quasi bear-riches; when a gallant bears all his riches in his breeches. all "Amo. Most fortunately etymologized !" Ben Jonson: Cynthia's Revels , iv. 2. B. In trans .: To study etymology; to search into the derivation or source of words.