A linguist is a person who studies language and its structure. This includes understanding how languages are formed, how they evolve over time, and how they are used in communication. Linguists may focus on various aspects of language, such as phonetics, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics. Linguists often work in academic settings, conducting research and teaching, but they can also be found in fields like translation, language technology, and language preservation. Their work can help improve communication, enhance language learning, and contribute to our understanding of human cognition and culture.