naturalism

noun

nat·​u·​ral·​ism ˈna-ch(ə-)rə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce naturalism (audio)
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

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
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Unlike the crime thriller elements that are just OK, there’s energy, urgency and a convincing naturalism when the focus is on Yan and Sister taking brave and sometimes dangerous steps to reclaim their right to self-determination. Richard Kuipers, Variety, 30 Oct. 2024 Duccio painted for Florentine patrons and probably learned from his Florentine peers, whose naturalism was likewise pioneering. Christian K. Kleinbub, ARTnews.com, 29 Oct. 2024 There’s a warmth and easygoing naturalism to Wong’s performance that makes these scenes both compelling and rewarding. Richard Kuipers, Variety, 29 Oct. 2024 Beyond its innovative storytelling and naturalism, Sienese art was sumptuous, marked by material and decorative splendor reflecting the city’s great wealth and cosmopolitanism. Christian K. Kleinbub, ARTnews.com, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for naturalism 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of naturalism was circa 1641

Dictionary Entries Near naturalism

Cite this Entry

“Naturalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/naturalism. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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