Nudist or Naturist

[Tfar]

As a person who likes to not wear cloths, how would you label yourself. Nudist or Naturist?

I use to call myself a nudist however over time, I feel this label has now been hijacked by the porn industry. So now it Naturist

What are other people thoughts?

[Mosquito_Bait]

Nudist.

Most people in the United States do not understand the word Naturist. They confuse it with Naturalist.

[nudeyooper]

I consider myself a nudist. To me naturists live a wholistic life in tune with nature. I don't do that. I just like living without clothes on.

[nudeM]

To me, a naturist is one that enjoys being nude in nature, the outdoors enjoying sports, hiking or any outdoor activity, socially or by oneself. A nudist is one that enjoys being nude both indoors, outdoors, both at home and among others. I consider myself a nudist, even though I enjoy the outdoors. But due to circumstances, not able to enjoy social nudity. During the summer, my only "clothing" is my wrap-around, which leaves nothing to the imagination with the split side. I only wear that when certain company is present, but other than that, I'm totally naked, and yes, I am able to roam around my backyard, totally naked as well. The terms are closely related, to me, but there is a slight difference in the definations. Just my opinion. .

[Mosquito_Bait]

It doesn't even seem we can agree on the definition of Naturism.



Merriam-Webster's definition highlights the confusion between Naturism and Naturalism.

Regarding Naturism being used in lieu of Nudism, Merriam-Webster makes no connection to a natural environment.

In the post at the start of this thread, it is noted that the word Nudism has been hijacked by the porn industry. The reality is that the porn industry would hijack the word Naturism if that word came into popular usage.

I will continue to use the word Nudism. People know what it means.

[NudonyII]

I will continue to use the word Nudism. People know what it means.

That's what my wife said when I proposed using the term "naturist." She declined, stating that the term "nudist" was instantly recognizable to people and didn't necessitate further clarification.

She takes it a bit further by stating that we go to "nudist venues" or participate in "nudist activities", instead of directly referring to herself as a "nudist." She wants to avoid other people defining her as a "nudist" because she doesn't want to be "put in a box and labeled."
I have no such issue. I have no problem identifying myself as a nudist. Or naturist.

[Noodfellaz]

Nudist. Probably because I am American and I've heard that term since the 70's. I also think nudism is more about being naked socially and naturism is more about communing with nature. 1/2 dozen of one, 6 of the other

[Bob S.]

I don't care which term is used regarding me. If I were to tell someone else, I would use either term and simply correct them if they didn't understand what I was talking about.

Bob S.

[SunnyDan]

It doesn't even seem we can agree on the definition of Naturism.



Merriam-Webster's definition highlights the confusion between Naturism and Naturalism.

Regarding Naturism being used in lieu of Nudism, Merriam-Webster makes no connection to a natural environment.

In the post at the start of this thread, it is noted that the word Nudism has been hijacked by the porn industry. The reality is that the porn industry would hijack the word Naturism if that word came into popular usage.

I will continue to use the word Nudism. People know what it means.

With a long background with various dictionaries over many years, Merriam-Webster's is possibly the world's worst dictionary, bar none.
It's not completely useless. It sometimes has a sub-definition that is unique and totally appropriate to a context that is the most appropriate. Generally it is the last choice that I would use for any commonly used word.
If you're American, use the American Heritage dictionary or the Random House Dictionary. (Use the larger versions of each for best results) If you're more comfortable with the English (UK) language, use the Oxford or Shorter Oxford English dictionary. While no dictionary is "perfect" (language is variable culture-to culture) These are more accurate.

[swedenu]

To me a nudist does not wear clothes where legal outside the home as well as of course, at home. A naturist especially loves being nude in Nature and tends to be more protective of the natural environment. (Like me—photo)

[MountainNudist]

I have read with interest discussions of both terms. I dunno that I have a real opinion, but refer to myself as a nudist. A happy naked person. ;-)

[EltonJ]

Nudist for me, although secret nudist is more accurate.

[NYLancelot]

To 'split hairs' a bit, about this issue: "Nudist" has not been 'hijacked' by the porn industry, or any other. True ,the word 'nude' is used by it to advertise their sites, movies, etc., but that is more about marketing than anything else. "Naturist" was adopted as an 'alternative' term, likely because it's less provacative (and hence less likely to lead to judgement) then 'nudist'. The idea is that nude is a 'natural' state, so we are in in our 'natural' state when naked. I hope this makes sense.

[Tanazz]

Call me a nudist
Call me a naturist
Just don't call me clothed

[Mosquito_Bait]

I suppose it is possible to be a naturist naturalist.