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naturalism

noun nat·u·ral·ism \ ˈna-chə-rə-ˌli-zəm , ˈnach-rə- \
|Updated on: 23 Jul 2018

Definition of naturalism

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

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Examples of naturalism in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples of naturalism from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'naturalism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of naturalism

circa 1641

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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naturalism Synonyms

Synonyms

literalism, realism, verisimilitude;

Related Words

photo-realism;

authenticity, grittiness;

NATURALISM Defined for English Language Learners

naturalism

noun

Definition of naturalism for English Language Learners

  • : a style of art or literature that shows people and things as they actually are

Learn More about naturalism

  1. See words that rhyme with naturalism Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for naturalism Spanish Central: Translation of naturalism Nglish: Translation of naturalism for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about naturalism

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