naturalistic

adjective

ˌna-ch(ə-)rə-ˈli-stik How to pronounce naturalistic (audio)
variants also naturalist
Definition of naturalisticnext
as in realistic
closely resembling the object imitated the movie's volcanic eruption is so naturalistic that it's easy to forget that it all came out of a computer

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of naturalistic Like many families, this was achieved through modern naturalistic ABA that is now the Gold Standard. — Robin Koncilja, Denver Post, 28 Sep. 2026 The two performances at the center are broad yet naturalistic, and nobody can dispute that Harrelson and McConaughey are convincingly able to play themselves. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2026 The later tonal shifts from one mood to the other detract from the film’s more naturalistic vibe, and the first half is much more satisfying. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Sep. 2026 The glossy foliage has a soft look perfect for more naturalistic screens. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for naturalistic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for naturalistic
  1. realistic
  2. living
  3. natural
  4. lifelike
  5. three-dimensional
Adjective
  • The latest 104-qubit simulation, however, accounts for realistic hardware noise, allowing researchers to examine how errors affect magic state cultivation.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 19 Oct. 2026
  • Washington should work with allies’ defense industries and military planners to come up with a new division of labor, set force levels, and create a realistic timetable to meet their goals.
    — Charles Kupchan, Foreign Affairs, 19 Oct. 2026
Definition of realistic
Adjective
  • Researchers developed LEDs that emit UVC at wavelengths below 235 nm, which is also absorbed by the outer, non-living layers of the skin.
    — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Communal living can look like co-living – where people choose to live with others in one house or building – or co-housing – which is a community built around a group of houses.
    — Brittany Luse, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of living
Adjective
  • Shooting stars become visible when particles of the ancient comet collide with our planet's atmosphere at 147,600 miles per hour (237,539 kilometers per hour), vaporizing in a spectacular display of natural fireworks.
    — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 17 Oct. 2026
  • This part of South America often gets heavy rain during El Niño, a natural climate phenomenon in which warmer-than-usual waters in the Pacific Ocean scramble weather patterns around the world.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of natural
Adjective
  • Highlights of the production will include a lifelike puppet portraying Toto, eight dancers taking flight (the most of any KC Ballet production) and ruby slippers adorned with 288 jewels.
    — Dan Kelly October 15, Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Samsung The Samsung 65-inch Class QN70H Series Neo 4K Smart TV delivers a breathtaking home theater experience using Quantum Mini LED technology for exceptional brightness, deep contrast, and lifelike colors.
    — Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2026
Definition of lifelike
Adjective
  • In the opening scene of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the system easily tracks effects through three-dimensional space, which move overhead and behind me more clearly, rather than just sounding vaguely above my head.
    — Christian de Looper, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The team plans to investigate three-dimensional structures that could support more complex movements, including bending, twisting, and shearing.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of three-dimensional

Browse Nearby Words

naturalism
naturalistic
naturalize
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Cite this Entry

“Naturalistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/naturalistic. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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