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

Despite that notable change, watching One Battle After Another is much like the experience of reading Pynchon, who lurches from high comedy to stomach-turning naturalism and punctuates plot-heavy sequences with little grace notes of character portraiture. —Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 24 Sep. 2025

His performance is a triumph of naturalism, as is that of Andrew May, who brings layered emotional textures to the couple’s best friend. —Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 21 Sep. 2025

Jo Brand squashes one of hers, David Baddiel tries to eat his, while Rose Matafeo and Ed Gamble rip theirs to shreds and Katy Wix overestimates the naturalism of holding a hard hat under one arm for an extended period of time. —Matthew Jackson, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2025

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