naturalistic
/ˌnætʃəˈrɪstɪk/ · nat·u·ris·tic
adjective
- Pertaining to naturalism; characterized by a faithful, unembellished representation of nature or reality. The painter’s naturalistic style captured the forest’s light and shadow with striking accuracy.
- Describing behavior, conditions, or environments that occur in nature rather than being artificial or laboratory‑created. The researchers preferred a naturalistic setting for the study to observe genuine social interactions.
- In biology, referring to organisms or traits that are typical of their natural habitats. The bird’s naturalistic plumage helps it blend seamlessly into the rainforest canopy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? The term gained literary prominence with the rise of 19th‑century naturalist novels, where authors like Émile Zola used naturalistic detail to expose social conditions.