What does scientist mean?
A scientist is a person who studies the natural or physical world, develops or tests theories, and conducts systematic research within a particular scientific discipline. The word includes practitioners in fields such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and computer science, though it is also used more broadly to describe people who apply scientific methods to other areas. In everyday conversation, “scientist” often carries an image of experimentation, specialist knowledge, and objectivity, although scientists may also work in teams, rely on instruments and previous research, and reach conclusions that remain open to revision. The term is customary in professional titles such as “research scientist,” “computer scientist,” and “environmental scientist.” It can occasionally be used figuratively for someone who approaches a subject in an analytical or technically rigorous way, but this extended use should be understood as a comparison rather than as a precise description of a profession.
nounA person who studies a branch of science or works in scientific research. The term may also refer broadly to someone who uses scientific methods or specialized technical knowledge in a particular field.
- A person who studies a scientific discipline or conducts scientific research.
"The scientist developed a new method for detecting changes in the Earth's climate."
"Scientists around the world are investigating the effects of climate change."
"The exhibition allows young visitors to meet scientists working in different fields."
The standard plural is formed by adding -s.
"The conference brought together scientists from more than thirty countries."
The suffix “-ist” turns a field of knowledge into a person: a scientist is someone who practices science.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scientist come from?
The word was formed in English during the early nineteenth century from science and the specialist-forming suffix -ist. Science itself comes through Latin scientia, meaning “knowledge,” ultimately from the Latin verb scire, “to know.” English words such as conscience, conscious, and prescience also descend from forms connected with Latin scientia and its root in the idea of knowing.
Related word forms
How scientist is actually used
The term is standard in academic and professional contexts. It is sometimes used loosely for technical specialists, but such people are not necessarily scientists by training.