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

California naturalist John Muir compared the two valleys’ beauties, but that was before Hetch Hetchy Valley was transformed by the O’Shaughnessy Dam into a massive reservoir. — Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

The Lawn is the place for games or just relaxing in an Adirondack chair, and a summertime activity calendar will keep the whole family busy with naturalist outings, crafts, stargazing, and evening s’mores. — Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 18 July 2026

With help from naturalists, participants will learn how to collect, identify and remove rusty crayfish from the Fox River, the release said. — Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2026

Joining Lindblad's crew is an expedition staff of largely Ecuadorian naturalists, scientists, and educators; guides who lead excursions are employed by the Parque Nacional Galápagos. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 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