What does naturism mean?
Naturism most commonly means the practice of being naked in settings where nudity is accepted, such as naturist beaches, resorts, and clubs. It usually implies a nonsexual interest in freedom from clothing, health, outdoor life, or social convention rather than an attempt to attract attention. In British and American English, nudism is also widely used as a synonym, while naturist is the usual adjective and noun for a participant. The word can also have a broader, older philosophical meaning: the idea that human life should be guided by natural instincts and resist artificial social restraints. That sense can occur in historical and philosophical writing but is much less common today. Understanding both meanings helps explain why naturism can refer both to a physical practice and to an ideal of living naturally.
nounNaturism is the practice of going naked in places where nudity is accepted, usually for reasons connected with health, nature, or freedom from social convention. In an older or more philosophical sense, it refers to the belief that people should follow natural instincts and live according to nature.
- The practice of being naked in places where nudity is accepted, especially at naturist beaches, colonies, or resorts; the philosophy or movement associated with this practice.
- A more historical and philosophical doctrine advocating the naturalness of human instincts and ways of life.
"The coastal village became known for its naturism and welcoming nudist beach."
"She has been a member of the naturist club for more than a decade."
"The philosopher's account of naturism emphasizes simplicity and the rejection of artificial social conventions."
The plural is grammatically regular but uncommon because the word usually refers to a single practice, philosophy, or movement.
"The essay compares different historical forms of naturism."
Naturism means the body can be natural—sometimes very, literally.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does naturism come from?
Naturism entered English through French naturisme, a term based on Latin natura, meaning “nature” or “natural condition.” The suffix -ism forms the word into a noun naming a practice, doctrine, or movement. Its best-known modern association with nonsexual nudism developed through the European naturist movement, while related English words such as nature, natural, and naturalist share the same Latin foundation.
Related word forms
How naturism is actually used
In contemporary usage, naturism most often refers to organized or recreational nudism in a nonsexual setting. The term can sound formal or ideological in some contexts, while nudism is a common alternative. The related adjective naturist describes a person, place, or practice associated with this meaning.
Easily confused with naturism
Naturism usually refers to nonsexual nudism or a philosophy of living naturally, whereas naturalism more commonly refers to an artistic or philosophical approach based on nature without idealized or supernatural additions.