English Reference

Word

nudist

Phoneticsnud·ist, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈnudɪst/

UK/njˈuːdɪst/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a person who chooses to be naked in public, especially at special beaches or clubs. This word is often used to describe someone who enjoys being in the sun without clothes.

n. a person who practices nudism, typically in designated public areas such as beaches or resorts. Often carries a slightly dated or informal tone in modern usage.

Examples

“The nudist walked along the beach without any clothes.”

“The resort caters specifically to nudists, offering private cabanas and a strict policy of clothing-free relaxation.”

“While the nudist movement gained significant traction in the mid-twentieth century, modern social norms have largely confined such practices to specific, legally protected enclaves.”

Examples

simple

“The nudist walked along the beach without any clothes.”

contextual

“The resort caters specifically to nudists, offering private cabanas and a strict policy of clothing-free relaxation.”

complex

“While the nudist movement gained significant traction in the mid-twentieth century, modern social norms have largely confined such practices to specific, legally protected enclaves.”

Real-World Examples

“When they have a chance, they hide in the dunes and study adult bodies at the nudist beach with fascination/repulsion.”
The Guardian 19 Aug 2026
“From here, it’s a stroll south to secluded Collelungo beach, with occasional sightings of shy deer, snuffling boar and the lesser-spotted nudist.”
The Guardian 29 Nov 2017

Etymology

From nude + -ist.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

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English Reference