naturalist

noun

nat·​u·​ral·​ist ˈna-ch(ə-)rə-list 

1

: one that advocates or practices naturalism

2

: a student of natural history

especially : a field biologist

Examples of naturalist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As for hospitality, relaxation comes easy within luxurious canvas tents alongside a comprehensive birdwatching program—especially those led by Oberoi’s expert naturalist, Soulin Chatterjee. — Lydia Swinscoe, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026

Clearly this budding naturalist deserved a flower in his name. — Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026

For his part, William was photographed speaking with the renowned British naturalist and television presenter David Attenborough during the celebration of his 100th birthday. — Mathilde Engelmann, Vanity Fair, 30 July 2026

One of the most significant European accounts of this knowledge came from Maria Sibylla Merian, a German naturalist and scientific illustrator who traveled to Suriname with her daughter in 1699 on a scientific expedition. — Kari Traylor, JSTOR Daily, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

naturalist

noun

nat·​u·​ral·​ist ˈnach-(ə-)rə-ləst 

: a person who specializes in natural history

naturalist adjective