'tattooist' originates from the word 'tattoo,' which comes from the Polynesian word 'tatau,' meaning 'to mark.'

'tattoo' was adopted into English in the late 18th century from the Tahitian word 'tatau,' and 'tattooist' emerged as a term for someone who applies tattoos.

Initially, it referred to the act of marking the skin, but now it specifically denotes a professional who applies tattoos.