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 of naturalism

• 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

Yana Radeva, shockingly a first-time actor, is quietly commanding as Veska, suggesting entire histories without spelling them out, while Grisebach’s documentary-like naturalism makes even the film’s strangest turns feel oddly plausible. — Taylor Antrim, Vogue, 19 Sep. 2026

In true Joycean fashion, Ironweed wants both symbolism and naturalism, the elevated language of heaven’s vaults alongside the unadorned details of bodily filth. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026

Possessing a previously unimaginable degree of naturalism, Raphael’s Madonnas appear to think and feel. — Carmen Rosenberg-Miller, Artforum, 6 Aug. 2026

The style of it was realism, deeply grounded in naturalism, a lot more restraint. — David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 28 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for naturalism

• activism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism
• calvinism