naturalist

noun

nat·​u·​ral·​ist ˈna-ch(ə-)rə-list How to pronounce naturalist (audio)
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
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Clinton was an accomplished naturalist who had researched the canal route’s geology, birds and fish. Christine Keiner, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2025 The first biography of the writer, and an engaging one at that, the book narrates how a child of privilege evolved into an esteemed naturalist-writer and a crusader for various left-wing causes. Maggie Doherty, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2025 Here, grizzlies don’t equate people with food—as opposed to populated areas where alluring smells forge a connection—and have learned to tolerate humans, thanks to decades of naturalists adopting nonthreatening practices. Susan Portnoy, AFAR Media, 3 Oct. 2025 Outside, the grounds read like a naturalist’s dream—California redwoods towering over the spring garden, woodlands alive with pine martens and sparrowhawks, and jetties waiting for fishing boats. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for naturalist

Word History

First Known Use

1587, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of naturalist was in 1587

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Cite this Entry

“Naturalist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naturalist. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

naturalist

noun
nat·​u·​ral·​ist ˈnach-(ə-)rə-ləst How to pronounce naturalist (audio)
: a person who specializes in natural history
naturalist adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on naturalist

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