naturalism

noun

nat·​u·​ral·​ism ˈna-ch(ə-)rə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: action, inclination, or thought based only on natural desires and instincts

2

: a theory denying that an event or object has a supernatural significance

specifically : the doctrine that scientific laws are adequate to account for all phenomena

3

: realism in art or literature

specifically : a theory or practice in literature emphasizing scientific observation of life without idealization and often including elements of determinism

Synonyms

• realism

Examples of naturalism in a Sentence

a major exponent of naturalism, Theodore Dreiser depicted life's harsh realities unflinchingly and without moral judgment

Recent Examples on the Web

Needless to say, Zhao’s signature naturalism serves Agnes well. —David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 30 Aug. 2025

Yen said she was struck by their similar artistic values through the years and by Diaz’s ability with surrealism and naturalism. —Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Aug. 2025

One can see a level of naturalism in these snippets of Gosling’s performance that hints at a completely different approach to the character. —Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2025

The mockumentary is packed with amazing deadpan performances by young actors whose comic timing and naturalism make for consistently hilarious television. —Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 26 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for naturalism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism