What does naturalness mean?
Naturalness names the quality of being natural, genuine, spontaneous, or unforced. It is especially used for speech, behavior, movement, performance, and landscapes, where it suggests that something feels appropriate rather than affected or artificial. For example, a speaker may be praised for the naturalness of their delivery, while a critic might question the naturalness of a highly staged performance. The word can also describe how closely something fits its environment or inherent character, as in the naturalness of a building within a rural landscape. Although naturalness often carries a positive connotation, it is broadly applicable and can simply identify a quality rather than praise it. As a countable noun, it is uncommon, with “naturalnesses” appearing mainly in comparative or analytical contexts.
nounThe quality or state of being natural, especially the degree to which something is unforced, spontaneous, or appropriate to its nature.
- The quality or condition of being natural, natural, spontaneous, unforced, or appropriate to the nature of something.
"The actor's relaxed delivery brought a remarkable naturalness to every scene."
"The warmth and naturalness of her conversation immediately put the guests at ease."
"Architects praised the naturalness of the building's integration with the surrounding landscape."
The plural is grammatical but uncommon; naturalness is usually treated as a mass noun.
"The study compared the naturalnesses of different forms of spoken presentation."
Naturalness turns a simple adjective into a name for the subtle art of seeming effortless.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does naturalness come from?
Naturalness was formed in English by adding the noun-forming suffix “-ness” to “natural.” “Natural” comes through Old French from Latin naturalis, meaning “of or according to nature,” ultimately related to Latin nasci, “to be born.” The same Latin family includes nature, natality, nativity, and nascent.
Related word forms
How naturalness is actually used
Usually neutral in register, naturalness commonly suggests spontaneity, authenticity, or an absence of artificiality. It can also refer to the quality of movement, speech, behavior, or appearance.
Easily confused with naturalness
Naturalness is the quality of being natural or seeming unforced, whereas naturalism refers to an artistic, philosophical, or scientific approach based on nature.