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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Together, three generations of naturalists wait in blinds for the appearance of lynx, deer, owls, and the near-mythical capercaillie. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 18 Aug. 2026 Botanists from across California and Arizona, plus Huntington specialists and a naturalist based in Chile, will present sessions on a variety of succulents, including Dudleya, boojum (Fouquieria columnaris) and Arabian aloe (Aloe rubroviolacea). — Pedro Moura, Los Angeles Times, 15 Aug. 2026 In Chicago, the Midwest Society for Acoustic Ecology holds annual soundwalks in public parks, led by artists and naturalists. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 13 Aug. 2026 Tim Branham, hiking guide and naturalist at The Lodge at Primland, Auberge Collection, says there are perfectly OK reasons this is happening that don’t mean your tree is dying. — Bianca Lambert, Southern Living, 12 Aug. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

naturalism
naturalist
naturalistic
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Cite this Entry

“Naturalist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naturalist. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of naturalist for Spanish Speakers

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