What does nudism mean?
Nudism means the practice or advocacy of being naked, particularly in a social, recreational, or organized setting such as a nudist beach or colony. The word often carries a distinction between nudity as a simple physical condition and the deliberate social practice of nudism. In this sense, nudism is associated with body acceptance, respect for different bodies, and the idea that nakedness can be nonsexual. It is used in British and American English, although naturism is especially common in British usage and may sound more formal or descriptive. The term can also appear in discussions of art, clothing-optional communities, and the history of body attitudes. As a result, nudism is broader than any one behavior or institution: it can refer both to an individual practice and to a wider social movement centered on freedom from clothing and conventional expectations about the body.
nounThe practice or social movement of being naked, especially in a recreational, communal, or artistic setting. It is often associated with body acceptance and the principle that nudity need not be sexual.
- The practice or advocacy of being naked, especially in a social, recreational, artistic, or organized setting.
"The resort has long been known for its relaxed attitude toward nudism."
"The documentary explored how nudism developed as a social practice."
"In some European resorts, nudism is accepted as part of an ordinary beach culture."
Nudism is normally used as a mass noun; the plural nudisms is grammatical but uncommon.
"Her essay contrasts different nudisms and the social values attached to them."
Nudism is not simply the act of taking off clothes: its social tradition is rooted in the idea that nudity can exist without sexual intent.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nudism come from?
The word entered English in the late nineteenth century from French nudisme, which was formed from the Latin nudus, meaning “naked.” English developed related forms such as nude, nudity, and nudist, alongside the more recent or parallel term naturism. The later history of the word reflects the development of organized social and recreational attitudes toward nakedness.
Related word forms
How nudism is actually used
Nudism is standard in both British and American English. In British usage, naturism is often preferred as a more formal or descriptive term. In its usual social sense, nudism does not imply sexual activity.
Easily confused with nudism
Nudity is the state or condition of being naked, whereas nudism is the practice or social movement of being naked, often in a shared or organized setting.
Naturism is closely related to nudism and is often preferred in British English as a descriptive or formal term.