An impressionist is a performer whose act consists of giving the "impression" of being someone else by imitating the other person's voice and mannerisms.
The word usually refers to a professional comedian who specializes in such performances, has developed a wide repertoire of impressions, and regularly seeks to add to them, often to keep pace with current events. Someone who imitates one particular person without claiming a wide range, such as a...
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An impressionist is a performer whose act consists of giving the "impression" of being someone else by imitating the other person's voice and mannerisms.
The word usually refers to a professional comedian who specializes in such performances, has developed a wide repertoire of impressions, and regularly seeks to add to them, often to keep pace with current events. Someone who imitates one particular person without claiming a wide range, such as a lookalike, is instead called an impersonator. In very broad contexts, "impersonator" may be substituted for "impressionist" where the distinction between the two is less important than avoiding confusion with the use of "impressionist" in painting and music.
Usually, the most "impressive" aspect of the performance is the vocal fidelity to the target — usually a politician or famous entertainer. Props may also be employed, such as glasses or hats, but these are now considered somewhat old-fashioned and cumbersome: the voice is expected to...
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