Definition of arabist:
(n) :
(anthropology, linguistics) A scholar who studies Arab or Arabic culture, politics, or language.
(adj) :
Pertaining to the study of Arabic language or culture.
(n) :
(politics) One that wants to spread Arabic culture; an Arab nationalist.
(adj) :
Pertaining to Arab nationalism; promoting Arab interests.
(adj) :
Pertaining to Arabism; medieval Arabic scholarship.
(n) :
(historical) One who followed the Arabic system of medicine or (more broadly) scholarship.